The council is urging residents, businesses, and individuals who work in, visit, or travel through Leeds to express their opinions on enhancements to walking, wheeling, and cycling before the closure of the Leeds City Links consultation on 19th November.
The proposals aim to enhance the layout of city centre streets, making Leeds a more navigable place and establishing a friendlier, safer environment for everyone who visits or travels through the city.
The initiative concentrates on improving Great George Street, Merrion Street, The Calls, and Kirkgate, where 62 casualties occurred between 2013-2022.
The plans will increase safety for pedestrians, wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, individuals with prams or pushchairs, or cyclists in the city centre. This will be achieved by implementing safer crossings, widening pavements, and introducing well-connected cycle tracks, providing more travel options for people.
The consultation also emphasizes enhancing the appearance of city centre streets by creating spaces for new greenery and offering opportunities for local businesses to establish outdoor dining areas, particularly along Great George Street.
The proposals retain the existing designated blue badge parking along the routes, along with loading facilities for local businesses.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for sustainable development and infrastructure, said; “It is encouraging to see the amount of engagement we’ve had in this consultation so far, and I’d urge anyone that travels through the area to have their say before the consultation closes, especially those from under-represented groups.
“The proposals will make busy areas much safer for anyone that already walks, wheels or cycles through the city centre whilst also encouraging more people to take up greener and healthier forms of travel for shorter journeys through the city.”
This scheme is being developed through the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s City Regional Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) programme, in partnership with Leeds City Council.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said; “A reliable and inclusive transport network, which prioritises walking, cycling and public transport, is key to our plans for a stronger and better-connected region.
“This scheme is part of a multi-million-pound package of investment to help us achieve that.
“Your opinion matters, so please make the most of this opportunity to have your say and shape the proposals.”
The survey can be completed online at https://bit.ly/3LUqFw6 . A paper copy of the survey can be requested by emailing connectingleeds@leeds.gov.uk or calling 0113 336 8868.
The Leeds City Links consultation is part of a broader set of transformational works in the city centre. The closure of City Square has reduced through traffic from the area, allowing surplus road space to be reallocated to safer routes for alternative travel options and spaces to spend time in.
The council is working diligently to minimize disruption in the city centre and expresses gratitude to everyone who has opted for alternative modes of travel, such as public transport, Park & Ride, or walking and cycling to access the city. When a car is absolutely necessary, access to the city centre should be via the Ring Road and then a relevant junction or link.
