Bradford Council, in collaboration with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, is set to enhance cycling accessibility in West Bradford.
The initiation of Phase 1 for the West Bradford Cycle Superhighway is imminent, marking the commencement of construction for segregated cycle lanes along a 2.5km stretch from Sunbridge Road to the western outskirts of Bradford. This extension aligns with the existing Bradford Leeds Cycle Superhighway, linking the two cities via dedicated cycle lanes and the City Connect 2 greenway, fostering connectivity between the city centre and Shipley. Future phases are in the pipeline, promising a more extensive cycling network upon completion.
Commencing preliminary work on January 29, the primary construction phase is slated to begin in April 2024. The project aims to establish a secure and convenient cycling route between the city centre and the western precincts. Sunbridge Road will feature single-lane segregated cycle routes, while Thornton Road will accommodate two-way cycling routes. With over 23,000 vehicles traversing the route daily, the initiative aspires to diminish car usage by encouraging cycling.
Pedestrian enhancements are also on the agenda, incorporating several new pedestrian crossings.
The £12 million initiative is a collaborative effort between Bradford Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. It is executed through the Transforming Cities Fund program, an initiative by the Combined Authority, targeting the facilitation of walking, cycling, and public transport. The fund, a capital grant from the Department for Transport, is exclusively allocated for transport-related purposes and cannot be diverted to day-to-day services or alternative projects.
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “The latest phase of our Transforming Cities programme extends our dedicated cycling network to West Bradford, along Thornton and Sunbridge Road. It brings quality cycle access between Bradford city centre and the Great Northern Railway Trail a step closer and includes new crossings for residents as well making it easier and safer to walk and cycle.”
Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said: “This is a huge investment that will improve cycling and walking routes in Bradford, as well as reduce congestion. By making it easier and safer to walk and cycle, more people can choose sustainable ways to travel as we build a greener, better-connected West Yorkshire.”
