12.03.20
Leeds flyover bridge to get £30m transformation
A major flyover bridge in Leeds City Centre Is set for a £30m transformation project in May.
Originally built in the late 1960s, the Regent Street Flyover will be replaced by a more modern structure to improve traffic flow on the key route through the city.
It comes after decades of damage from road salt and poor construction details common from construction in the 1960s.
The bridge’s makeover is part of Connecting Leeds, the transport strategy for the region outlining a number of new measures looking to transform the way residents and visitors travel around.
An estimated 43,000 vehicles pass over the bridge every day and 30,000 vehicles pass underneath it on the A61, making it a crucial form of connectivity in the city.
Leeds City Council Chief Officer Highways and Transportation, Gary Bartlett said:
“We are conscious that there are a lot of works taking place in and around the city at the moment and we are keen to give advance notice and information about the work to enable better journey planning and to promote alternative and more active forms of transport.
“Extra time should be allowed for journeys and where possible, we would like to ask people to leave cars at home and avoid travelling during peak times.
“Please ensure you plan ahead, check timetables or apps and leave more time for your journey as services will be busier. For shorter trips walking or cycling could be the fastest route to your destination.
“We will continue to work with bus operators to ensure that buses can continue to operate effectively throughout the work for Leeds residents and those working and visiting the city. We would like to remind people that the city remains open for business, however delays are inevitable when carrying out such a large-scale project.
“We would like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience that this work may cause however, we would also like to stress to people that this work is absolutely vital to ensure the bridge remains safe for road users.
Scheduled for completion is Spring 2022, the work will require some overnight and weekend closures.
Photo: Leeds City Council