Leeds City Council have announced that they are to open up bus lanes for motorcyclists in order to support alternative forms of travel.
Starting on Friday 29th July 2022 and ending 28th July 2023, this trial is aiming to support motorcycling as an alternative to car travel, as well as improving safety for motorcyclists. The area being trialled includes the bus lanes on the A65, between Kirkstall and the city centre, and scooters will be part of the trial.
Councillor Helen Hayden, executive member for infrastructure and climate, said:
“Our ambition is to become a city where you don’t need a car. Motorcycles emit significantly fewer exhaust fumes than the average car, so are a more attractive choice for singular passenger journeys thereby helping us reduce emissions and congestion for everyone. In the longer term, as more electric motorcycles come onto the market, they will help us achieve our decarbonisation targets.
“I’m pleased we’ve listened to feedback from Motorcycle Action Group and other motorcycling stakeholders to bring forward this trial as part of our promise in our Connecting Leeds transport strategy. We’re also committed to providing new parking facilities across Leeds to support motorcyclists in Leeds.
“Sharing road space with buses and lower speeded users such as bicycles and pedestrians who are crossing will deserve due diligence from motorcycle users in Leeds and I would urge them to take extra care.
“Like other large growing cities, Leeds faces several challenges, including combatting climate change. An increase in the number of people choosing sustainable transport options would help us with our ambition of being a carbon neutral city by 2030.”
During the trial, motorcyclists’ safety as well as the impact of the trial on other road users will be evaluated, with bus passengers and vulnerable road users taking priority.
