Work on Ilkley 20mph traffic zone to start despite referendum rejection

Some people have opposed the plans for the 20mph zone in Ilkley

Work to create a 20mph traffic zone in Ilkley is due to begin on Monday, despite residents having voted against the plans, it has been confirmed.

The majority of those who took part in a non-binding vote last October opposed the scheme, which will mainly affect roads around schools and nurseries.

The work will involve installing new signs and traffic-calming measures.

Bradford Council said 20mph zones were "proven to work in reducing both the number and severity of collisions".

Polling was carried out on Monday 23 October, with just over 34% of the town's eligible 11,950 voters taking part.

People were asked for their views on proposals for the speed-calming measures at several locations in Ilkley.

However, the result of the vote could not legally halt the plans, which were supported by Ilkley Town Council.

'Appropriate scheme'

Members of the Ilkley Road Safety Action Group, which opposes the 20mph zone, claimed it would be a "waste of public money".

One member of the group said on social media: "Fix the pot holes and the sunken drains, which cause cyclists to have to pull out to avoid them...plus fix the pavements.

"That is a more sensible use of our money."

However, Ilkley town mayor Karl Milner said the measures would make the area safer.

"They are needed and therefore I'm delighted to see them go in," he said.

"I think it will be a happier, safer and better place to live once it's finished."

In a statement ahead of the start of work on Monday, Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's executive member for transport, said: "The installation of this scheme will improve conditions for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

"It is important to note that the amount of traffic-calming being installed is half the amount originally proposed, which we amended based on feedback through the consultation process.

"We have already delivered similar schemes elsewhere in the district and we're confident this is an appropriate scheme for Ilkley and will deliver lasting benefits for all highway users."

Mr Ross-Shaw added that of Ilkley's 636 streets, only 257 would be within the new 20mph zone - and only 12 of those would have traffic-calming measures, mainly around schools and nurseries.