The next phase of a major traffic overhaul in Leeds city centre will begin this weekend.
Leeds City Council has announced the next phase of construction at City Square, which will see major changes take place to vehicle movement in the city centre. The next stage of construction will begin on Sunday, January 8, outside the Queens Hotel.
The main changes will be Thirsk Row and King Street being made into two-way streets, these form part of the council's plans to remove general traffic away from the area. This is all in a bid to make the city centre more people first.
Read More: Leeds thug strangled partner who 'couldn't even scream' as he asked 'do you want to die?'
Access to Wellington Street will be maintained for access and deliveries during the works. Buses and taxis will need to travel via Infirmary Street and Kings Street to access Wellington Street.
From 6am on Sunday, January 8, the following city centre road layout changes will occur:
- The current one-way direction of travel running from Thirsk Row via Wellington Street and King Street (up to Infirmary Street) will no longer be in place.
- King Street and Thirsk Row will become two-way.
- Thirsk Row will become two-way for all traffic.
- King Street will have a new southbound 24-hour bus gate.
Works have been ongoing since November, seeing the removal, alteration and replacement of existing road markings, traffic islands, signage and signals. Road closures were put in place from Wednesday (January 4) along Thirsk Row, Wellington Street, Quebec Street and King Street.
Residents, businesses and emergency services can still get access with the final resurfacing works planned for the spring/summer of 2023.
From January 8, there are 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.
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 January 8. We’ve planned these works to coincide with reduced peak traffic, after the Christmas break.
Tell us what you think of the traffic in Leeds. If you can't see the survey click here
“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.”
Read next:
Mum left with horrific burns and blisters after sparklers 'set fire in her hand'
Thousands of pounds of drugs and cash seized from car on A1 near Leeds
Amber Deakin, 18, named as tragic teenager killed in Bradford crash as tributes flood in
Heartbreaking tributes as Leeds residents shocked by girl's sudden death on Christmas Day
