The installation of the A58 Wellington Road footbridge in Leeds will lead to significant road closures starting at 8 pm on Saturday, 8 February, and lasting until the early hours of Monday, 10 February, with additional disruptions expected on Sunday, 11 February. This project marks the final phase of work around the Armley Gyratory, aiming to enhance accessibility and streamline pedestrian movement through the city.
When will the A58 Wellington Road footbridge installation cause road closures in Leeds?
The A58 Wellington Road footbridge installation will result in road closures in Leeds starting at 8 pm on Saturday, 8 February until the early hours of Monday, 10 February. Further closures are expected on Sunday, 11 February, from 6 am to 9 am. Road users are advised to plan for alternative routes during this period.
Highways and Road Closures
As Leeds continues to advance its infrastructure, the Armley Gyratory system is undergoing significant changes that will impact road users. In early February, attention is drawn to the A58 Wellington Road, which will see full closure of its northern arm. The disruption is scheduled to begin at 8 pm on Saturday, 8 February, and will conclude by the early hours of Monday, 10 February. This is a key moment in the transportation landscape of Leeds, marking the installation of the new Wellington Road footbridge.
The installation represents the third and final phase in the series of footbridge constructions around the gyratory. With new, wider, and more accessible footways, the aim is to streamline pedestrian movement across this busy junction. Post-demolition work in July 2024, the completion of construction is expected by early spring 2025, allowing open access to the public. In preparation, extensive road closures are imminent, with alternative routes being essential for navigating the city during this period.
On Sunday, 11 February, from 6 am to 9 am, further closures will affect Canal Street and Wellington Road, accommodating necessary vehicle movements. These interruptions point to the larger goal of creating a more connected Leeds, but they require the public’s understanding and cooperation during these times of transition.
Connecting Leeds and Improving Accessibility
The Wellington Road footbridge will span an impressive 43.5 meters in length and three meters in width, stretching over the A58. Its design focuses on inclusivity, catering to non-motorised users and individuals with disabilities. Such improvements signal Leeds’ commitment to accessibility and a forward-thinking approach to urban development. The footbridge, designed to reduce future maintenance needs, is a testament to the city’s dedication to long-term infrastructure resilience.
To minimize traffic disruption, two cranes and a self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT) will facilitate the footbridge installation during the quieter nighttime hours. On Saturday night, 8 February, the bridge’s main span will be transported under police escort from junction 2 of the M621 to its final position at the Armley Gyratory. Such measures ensure that the intricate process of installation has as little impact as possible on the city’s daily operations.
The Leeds City Council, in collaboration with West Yorkshire Police and Leeds United, has ensured that this operation will not coincide with major events, such as upcoming football fixtures. This coordination underlines the council’s strategy to deliver complex projects with minimal inconvenience to the public, reflecting their dedication to maintaining the city’s vibrancy even amidst substantial development work.
Preparatory Work and Official Statements
In anticipation of the full weekend closures, preliminary work is slated to commence on the night of Monday, 27 January. This involves establishing new bridge column supports, necessitating the closure of the carriageway from the Armley Gyratory northbound to the Armley Road junction and from Wellington Street slip road southbound to the Armley Gyratory. Contingency dates are in place should unfavorable weather conditions arise, demonstrating the council’s preparedness for various scenarios.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, the deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport, and sustainable development at Leeds City Council, expressed confidence in the project’s significance:
“I am pleased to see that the third and final Wellington Road footbridge is to be completed around the Armley Gyratory. These new bridges represent transformative changes to our city’s footways, enhancing accessibility and connectivity. The team’s meticulous planning and coordination are crucial in minimizing disruptions during large highways schemes.”
Councillor Pryor further urged the public to plan accordingly:
“For the weekend of 8 February, travelers should anticipate additional journey time and adhere to the road diversion signs. We appreciate the patience and cooperation of everyone as we continue to work towards minimizing disruption and improving our city’s infrastructure.”
Diversions and Public Guidance
For those navigating Leeds during the footbridge installation, it’s crucial to stay informed about the changes in traffic patterns. Clear signage will direct road users along diversion routes designed to ease the transition through the affected areas. The council encourages residents and visitors to plan their trips with these alterations in mind, allowing extra time for travel and considering alternative modes of transportation where possible.
The installation of this footbridge is not just a physical construction but also a bridge to a better-connected future for Leeds. As the city evolves, its infrastructure must follow suit, enhancing the quality of life for its citizens. These temporary inconveniences will pave the way for lasting improvements, signaling the council’s unwavering commitment to growth and development.
Leeds City Council provides ongoing updates and detailed information on road closures and diversion routes. For real-time traffic information and advice on planning your journey, the council’s dedicated traffic management website and social media channels offer valuable resources to keep road users informed.
- The installation of the A58 Wellington Road footbridge in Leeds will result in significant road closures from 8 pm on Saturday, 8 February, until early Monday, 10 February, with further disruptions on Sunday, 11 February.
- This project represents the third and final phase of footbridge construction around the Armley Gyratory, aimed at improving pedestrian accessibility and movement in the city.
- The footbridge will span 43.5 meters in length and 3 meters in width, designed to accommodate non-motorized users and individuals with disabilities, showcasing Leeds’ commitment to accessibility.
- To minimize traffic disruption, installation will occur during nighttime hours, utilizing cranes and a self-propelled modular transporter (SPMT) under police escort for the bridge’s transport.
- Leeds City Council advises road users to plan for alternative routes and allows extra travel time during the installation, reinforcing their commitment to minimizing disruptions while enhancing city infrastructure.