Bradford Council, in collaboration with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, has initiated a public consultation concerning the South Bradford Park and Ride Scheme.
The proposals encompass a range of enhancements for pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users commuting from the southern part of the Bradford district to the city centre.
The proposed measures aim to decrease bus travel times and provide improved cycling routes. Additionally, there is a long-term aspiration to implement a Park and Ride service in the future.
These improvements are designed to alleviate congestion and pollution along Manchester Road.
In the summer of 2021, Bradford Council sought public input on plans for a comprehensive Park and Ride scheme. Since then, the project team has formulated a fresh set of proposals that consider both public feedback and budget constraints due to escalating costs.
The updated proposals include:
- Implementing targeted bus measures along Manchester Road, incorporating priority at key junctions and a new lane to expedite travel times.
- Establishing a new cycle route from the former Richard Dunn Sports Centre to the city centre, connecting to the National Cycle Network (NCN) Route 66. This dedicated route, away from main roads, aims to offer a quieter cycling experience and connect to the broader cycling network.
- Establishing a new Park and Ride on the outskirts of the city, featuring a car park and bus terminal on the land currently utilized for event parking at Odsal stadium on the site of the former Richard Dunn Sports Centre. This Park and Ride, equipped with a secure car park and cost-effective travel options, would serve as an alternative to driving into the city, particularly during major events at the upcoming Bradford Live arena and the UK City of Culture in 2025. Importantly, the former Richard Dunn Sports Centre building would remain unaffected by this facility.
Commenting on the proposals, Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “The Manchester Road corridor is a vital route into and out of Bradford city centre, and one which currently suffers from high levels of pollution and congestion. By asking residents what they think about our proposals, we hope to present alternative options for those who wish to use them, and that better infrastructure will lead to easier journeys for all. We’d encourage everyone to view the proposals and let us know what you think.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “We are investing millions of pounds to make it easier for people to walk, cycle and use public transport in and around Bradford.
“This is part of our work to create a more inclusive and better-connected region.
“Your opinion matters, so please make the most of this opportunity to shape these proposals to transform travel between south Bradford and the city centre.”
The consultation period spans six weeks, running from Thursday 9 November to Thursday 21 December. Feedback can be submitted at www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/southbradfordpandr, via email to info@future-bradford.co.uk, by calling 0808 196 9119, or by writing to Freepost BFD Highways.
Face-to-face events will also be conducted, allowing the public to learn about the proposals and pose questions to the project team. These events are scheduled for Thursday 23 November 2023, between 2-6 pm at the Sedbergh Sports Centre, Cleckheaton Road, BD12 0HQ, and Thursday 30 November 2023, between 1-5 pm at City Hall, Centenary Square, BD1 1HY.
The majority of the scheme is being implemented through the Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund programme, aimed at facilitating walking, cycling, and public transport usage. This includes the development work for the Park and Ride scheme, as well as the execution of the cycling route and bus improvements. Additional funding is being pursued for the completion of the Park and Ride, encompassing the car park and terminal building.
