There could be more disruption in Leeds city centre as plans to pedestrianise City Square set to move onto the next phase.
Leeds City Council announced that there will be major changes from next month in its plans to make City Square “people-first by removing general through-traffic away from the area.”
The changes include King Street and Thirsk Row becoming two-way and King Street will have a new southbound 24-hour bus gate from January 8.
Read more: Leeds officially named one of the best 23 places to visit in the world in 2023
In addition to this, there will also be no longer vehicle access to Wellington Street. Buses and taxis will have to travel via Infirmary Street and Kings Street to access Wellington Street.
However, there will also be a series of lane and road closures along Thirsk Row, Wellington Street, Quebec Street and King Street, from January 4.
The work forms part of a major package of investment for Leeds city centre totalling around £15m.
A spokesperson for the council stated access will be maintained throughout for businesses, residents, and emergency services, with the final re-surfacing works planned for the spring/summer of 2023.
Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for infrastructure and climate, said: “I know that no one likes road works and that they cause disruption, but they are necessary to improve our road network and keep Leeds moving. We’re working as fast as we can to make these improvements and I want to thank everyone in advance for their patience. We have done work to try and minimise the disruption these works will have, but no matter the amount of planning there will be some congestion.
“That’s why it’s important to let everyone know about these significant changes on King Street, Thirsk Row and around City Square happening by 8 January. We’ve planned these works to coincide with reduced peak traffic, after the Christmas break.
“King Street and Thirsk Row becoming two-way is a major change in the city centre. For road safety purposes, we’re putting in place signage and other measures to help pedestrians who should take extra care when crossing these roads.
“If you’re planning to travel to the city centre during the works, I would encourage you to use alternative methods of transport such as the Park and Ride service, buses, cycling or walking.
“The Park and Ride service is a great alternative to driving into the city. If you feel you really must drive into the city centre, please plan your journey in advance, try to avoid the area, allow extra time, and consider travelling outside of peak hours. We have put together alternative routes if driving via www.leeds.gov.uk/planahead and again, thank you for your patience.”
Plan Ahead to avoid being affected by congestion
Motorists are advised to plan ahead when travelling into the city centre to avoid becoming caught in congestion because of the works. From 4 January and over the switchover weekend 7/8 January, expect delays and possibly avoid the area if you can.
Impact on buses
From 8 January, there’s also changes to bus routes affected by these new layouts and people will need to check with West Yorkshire Metro ahead of travel. The following bus services are impacted 4, 4F, 5, 5A, 14, 15, 16, 16A, 33, 34, 42, 55, 55c, 65, 75, 60, 229, 254, 255, 508, and A1.
Read next:
'We can't sell our home because the corner of the living room doesn't belong to us'
Infamously rude Karen's Diner is opening in Leeds for special New Year's Eve event
DWP £50 cold weather payments and all the Leeds postcodes that will get it
Drug dealing thugs dug 'secret cellars' under Yorkshire homes to hide £500k pot
Strictly's Helen Skelton back to work with 'last night's makeup' hours after final
