The final stages of the enhancement project for Leeds City Square and its adjacent areas are set to commence on Monday, 4th September, involving overnight road closures to facilitate the completion of highway surfacing tasks.
From 4th September to 16th September, roads in the vicinity of City Square will be closed overnight between 8 pm and 6 am to carry out the surfacing activities, marking significant progress towards the ultimate completion of the project.
The surfacing activities will be executed in two phases, with diversion routes strategically implemented:
4th to 8th September (8 pm to 6 am): Neville Street, Bishopgate, Boar Lane, Infirmary Street, Park Row
11th to 16th September (8 pm to 6 am): Thirsk Row, Wellington Street, King Street, and Quebec Street
Throughout the closure period, local residents and businesses will retain access to their premises.
While the majority of highway works in the City Square vicinity have already been finalised, there remain some additional tasks, such as the installation of automatic bollards and information boards. Regular updates regarding the progress of these activities will be provided to local residents and businesses.
Efforts to transform the area into a safer, more pedestrian-friendly environment have been ongoing since September 2022, with the aim of creating an improved space for residents, workers, and visitors to the city.
By restricting general traffic in City Square, this highway project will contribute to reducing congestion in the city centre, enhancing local air quality, and providing improved infrastructure for buses, pedestrians, and cyclists through the reallocation of road space to more sustainable transportation options. Additionally, these improvements will establish an inviting entrance for those arriving at Leeds City Station and facilitate the station’s redevelopment.
As part of these transformations, several bus gates have been implemented to prioritize public transport. These bus gates are now operational on the Headrow, East Parade, Park Row, King Street, City Square, Boar Lane, and Neville Street.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, said:
“We’re getting nearer to the completion of City Square which will make it easier for people to get around by walking, wheeling, and cycling, and supports our ambition to create greener, healthier, and safer public spaces for people to enjoy.
“We’re continuing to work hard to minimise disruption and would again like to thank everyone who has changed the way they travel into and around the city centre.
“The City Square works represent a major change for traffic movement and people should consider alternative modes of travel, like public transport, the Park & Ride, or walking and cycling to get into the city. However, where people absolutely must use the car, they should familiarise themselves with new routes to key destinations.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their ongoing patience throughout the scheme and apologise for the disruption whilst work has progressed.”
