Major city centre improvement scheme enters final stages of completion

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

Over on Infirmary Street, the road will be converted in to a two-way operation designed for bus and cycle priority access (with provision for local access for businesses and residents). Bus stops will be upgraded and bus-only restrictions will improve 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 improved bus services and cleaner air. 

Because the resurfacing work involves removing the existing road surface, it needs to be done under full road closures of Park Row in phase 1 and Infirmary Street in Phase 2. Details of these closures are as followed:

• 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

Diversions will be clearly signed, and access will be provided for emergency vehicles if needed. These dates have been chosen to have as little impact as possible on the Christmas trading period.

The Park Row and Infirmary Street scheme is being undertaken by John Sisk & Son and is expected to be fully complete by January 2021.

For more information on the scheme and to sign up to our monthly newsletter 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.