Public consultation has been announced for the A64 Bus Priority Corridor project in Leeds, aiming to enhance bus punctuality, improve cycling and walking facilities, and promote sustainable transport to reduce carbon emissions. The initiative, led by Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, seeks public input to refine plans and ensure community needs are met, with online engagement available from July 9th to August 6th, 2024.
What are the key goals of the A64 Bus Priority Corridor project in Leeds?
The A64 Bus Priority Corridor project aims to:
- Improve bus punctuality and reduce travel times
- Enhance cycling and walking facilities
- Extend inbound bus lanes and improve traffic signals
- Install new bus lanes and advanced information displays at bus stops
- Promote sustainable transport to improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions
Connecting Leeds Through Transport Initiatives
In a vital move to boost the city’s transport infrastructure, Leeds City Council, in collaboration with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, has initiated a public engagement period concerning the A64 corridor. These entities have come together to enhance transit operations along the A64, unveiling the A64 Bus Priority Corridor project. The scheme’s ambition is to improve the punctuality of buses and reduce overall travel times. Furthermore, it aims to upgrade cycling and walking amenities spanning from Marsh Lane to Stanks Lane North. This public engagement phase is designed to roll out online via the ‘Your Voice’ platform, starting from Tuesday 9th July to Tuesday 6th August 2024.
The participation of the populace is crucial. Local residents’ insights are instrumental in refining the project’s final blueprint. The public’s voice will be a cornerstone in finalizing the plans and ensuring that the outcomes align with community needs. The proposals are comprehensive, covering an array of enhancements. These include extending the inbound bus lane, improving traffic signals at critical junctions, installing new bus lanes, and setting up state-of-the-art information displays at selected bus stops.
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund programme is a key driver for the scheme. The programme’s overarching goals are to facilitate easier walking, wheeling, cycling, and use of public transport. By investing in these areas, Leeds is taking significant strides towards a more interconnected and sustainable city infrastructure.
Striving for Sustainable Transport
The initiative aligns with Leeds’ broader commitment to environmental stewardship, aiming to curtail carbon emissions and elevate air quality. Councillor Jonathan Pryor, serving as Leeds City Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Economy, Transport and Sustainable Development, articulated the council’s vision: “This project represents a significant step forward in our commitment to creating a more sustainable and efficient transport network in Leeds.” He further emphasized the project’s potential to alleviate congestion and foster a healthier living environment, thereby enriching the city’s overall livability.
Councillor Pryor also highlighted the importance of public input: “We encourage all residents to participate in the public engagement process to help us refine these plans and ensure they meet the needs of our community.” This sentiment was echoed by Cllr Peter Carlill, Deputy Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Committee, who pointed out that these proposals are fundamental to facilitating access, mitigating road congestion, and improving air quality.
Cllr Carlill stressed the weight of public opinion in shaping the future: “Your opinion matters. Help shape these plans and join us in creating a greener, better-connected West Yorkshire for all.” It is clear that community feedback is not merely a formality; it is an intrinsic part of the planning and execution process for the A64 Bus Priority Corridor project.
Engaging with the Community
The council and authority have laid out clear avenues for the community to offer feedback. An online consultation will be accessible, featuring a wealth of information, designs, frequently asked questions, and a survey on the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s ‘Your Voice’ platform. To partake in this consultation and for additional details, interested parties may visit www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/a64.
Additionally, in-person drop-in events are scheduled, offering a direct forum for discussion and queries. The appointments are as follows:
- 17th July, 9.30am-12.30pm at Boardroom 1, Seacroft Community Hub, Deacon House, 1 Seacroft Avenue, Seacroft, Leeds LS14 6JD
- 22nd July, 4pm-7pm at Chapel FM Arts Centre, Main Hall, Old Seacroft Chapel, York Road, Seacroft, LS14 6JB
These sessions present a prime opportunity for residents to engage with the planners, convey concerns, and contribute to the project’s course.
Notes to Editors
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority plays a pivotal role in shaping the region’s future. Comprising local authorities from Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, Leeds, and Wakefield, and led by the Mayor of West Yorkshire, this collective endeavors to develop policies and services that have a tangible impact on the West Yorkshire populace. Their vision encapsulates a prosperous, well-connected, secure, inclusive, and vibrant region, thriving on creativity and sustainability. More information about the authority and its vision can be found at www.westyorks-ca.gov.uk.
In summary, the public engagement on the A64 Bus Priority Corridor project is not only an opportunity to gather feedback but also reflects the collaborative spirit of Leeds and West Yorkshire authorities to propel the city towards a sustainable and inclusive future in transportation.
- The A64 Bus Priority Corridor project aims to improve bus punctuality, reduce travel times, enhance cycling and walking facilities, and promote sustainable transport to reduce carbon emissions.
- The initiative is led by Leeds City Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, seeking public input to refine plans and meet community needs.
- The project includes extending inbound bus lanes, improving traffic signals, installing new bus lanes, and setting up information displays at bus stops.
- The initiative aligns with Leeds’ commitment to environmental stewardship, aiming to cut carbon emissions and improve air quality.
- Residents can participate in the public consultation online through the ‘Your Voice’ platform or in person at scheduled drop-in events to provide feedback and contribute to the project’s development.