News on Leeds City Square

People that live, work in or visit Leeds are being encouraged to feedback on plans to improve key routes for alternative travel options like walking, wheeling* and cycling.

Proposals aim to improve the design of city centre streets, making Leeds an easier place to get around and creating a more welcoming, safer environment for anyone that visits, or travels through the city.

The consultation focuses on transformations to the north and south of the city centre, from Great George Street (near Leeds General Infirmary) to Call Lane and Kirkgate (near Leeds Minster) and is part of the council’s ambition to make Leeds a ‘city where you don’t need a car’ to get around, where everyone has an affordable and accessible zero carbon choice in how they travel.

In addition to increasing the opportunities for safer and alternative travel, the consultation focuses on improving key areas in the city with pavement widening, space for greenery and opportunities for street cafés.

The ‘Leeds City Links’ consultation is part of a wider package of transformational works in the city centre. The closure of City Square has reduced through traffic from the area, which means that surplus road space can be reallocated to safer routes for alternative travel options and spaces to spend time in.

Proposed improvements include:

• Widened pavements, making it safer and easier to walk around the city centre

• Safer and easier places to cross the road at key junctions, including the busy Merrion Street junction

• New crossings for pedestrians and cycle users

• Opportunities for street cafés along Great George Street

• Protected cycle track and cycle crossings, making it safer and easier for more people to cycle around the city centre

• Opportunities for improved greenery along the route

Residents, businesses and anyone that visits the city are encouraged to have their say on proposals before the survey closes on 19 November.

The survey can be completed online at this link,or by attending drop-in events at:

• Leeds Art Galleryon 24 October, 11:00-13:00, and 13:30-15:00

• Leeds Minsteron 1 November, 10:00-13:00, and 14:00-18:00

*Wheeling incorporates many methods for getting around, including using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walking aids and travelling with a pram or pushchair.

This scheme is being developed by Leeds City Council in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.