More bus delays without A64 upgrade, says council

Proposals to speed up bus journeys on the A64 include new segregated lanes for all buses

A key route into Leeds must be improved to avoid worse and more regular delays for buses, according to the city council.

The public are being asked for their views on plans for the future of the A64, which is used by 30 buses per hour in each direction.

Councillors are proposing giving buses greater priority to make journeys quicker, reduce congestion and improve air quality.

A public consultation on Leeds City Council's website is open until 4 February.

'Greener, better-connected West Yorkshire'

The council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) are proposing new segregated lanes for all buses, and changes to traffic lights to give greater priority to buses and pedestrians.

This would include the demolition of Shaftesbury Footbridge to install a more pedestrian and bike-friendly crossing, as part of efforts to encourage more walking and cycling.

The consultation describes the A64 as a "critical route" which "struggles to meet demand" and "without intervention regular congestion and delays, particularly during peak times, are expected to worsen".

Leeds City Council deputy leader Jonathan Pryor said: "This phase of the A64 improvements is a major step toward delivering a transport system that prioritises efficient bus travel while also ensuring safe, accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists.

"We want these changes to reflect the needs of everyone in the community, so I encourage all residents to take part in the consultation and help shape the final plans."

Peter Carlill, deputy chair of the WYCA Transport Committee, said: "These proposals will not only make travel safer and more efficient for people along the A64 but also support our goal of creating a greener and better-connected West Yorkshire."

In addition to the online consultation, there are drop-in events on Monday 13 January at the Old Fire Station cafe in Gipton, and on Tuesday 21 January at St Philip's Church Hall on Osmondthorpe Lane.

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