Sectors - Civil

City Centre Scheme Enters Final Stages



A major city centre improvement scheme, costing £8 million, in Leeds city centre is nearing the final stages of completion with pavement resurfacing works set to start on Park Row and Infirmary Street.

The essential improvement scheme will see Park Row being converted into a one-way street for most of its length, this will make it easier for buses to use, whilst also easing congestion. Pavements will also be significantly widened, and a protected cycleway will be created to link the City Station to The Headrow and Cookridge Street. The road will also be modernised, and more greenery will be planted to improve public realm.

On Infirmary Street the road will be converted into a two-way operation, designed for bus and cycle priority access, with bus stops being upgraded and bus-only restrictions improving journey times and air quality.

The scheme forms part of Leeds City Council’s Connecting Leeds programme, to make public transport, cycling and walking more attractive, with a focus on improving bus services and cleaner air.

As the resurfacing works involve removing the existing road surface, there will need to be full road closures of Park Row in Phase 1 and Infirmary Street in Phase 2. Details of these closures are as follows:

  • Phase 1: Park Row and City Square – 8pm Saturday 31 October to 5am Tuesday 3 November
  • Phase 2: Infirmary Street and East Parade – 8pm Saturday 7 November to 5am Tuesday 10 November

The diversions will be clearly marked, and access will be provided for emergency vehicles. The Park Row and Infirmary Street scheme is being undertaken by John Sisk & Son and is expected to be fully completed by January 2021.

For more information on the scheme, visit www.leeds.gov.uk/connectingleeds

Leeds City Council’s Executive Member for climate change, transport and sustainable development, Councillor Lisa Mulherin, said:

“I am thrilled to see this essential project in its final stages. The scheme undoubtedly offers major benefits which will improve the experience for those visiting the city centre whether on foot, bike or bus.

“Easing congestion, improving cycleways, widening pavements and offering a safer, greener and more attractive space for visitors will all help us with our ambition to be carbon neutral by 2030.

“I would like to offer my thanks to the public for their patience while we carry out these works – in particular residents living close-by to the work.”

John Sisk & Son’s Regional Director Dave Hill said:

“This Connecting Leeds programme is important for the city of Leeds and we at John Sisk & Son are proud to be part of a lasting legacy in the city for generations to come.”

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