Work is progressing on plans to improve roads and public spaces in and around the centre of Halifax, with feedback from residents and businesses being used to develop the designs.
The A629 Phase 2 Halifax town centre project aims to create new welcoming spaces and improve accessibility and traffic circulation around the town. It will also improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, enhance public transport connectivity and support inclusive growth.
In February and March 2023, residents and businesses in Halifax were invited to examine proposals for how vehicles will be able to use the roads in the town centre as part of this project. This included proposed changes to bus stops and taxi ranks, the addition of new cycle and pedestrian zones, changes to parking and plans to reroute traffic.
The comments received have now been analysed, with some of the key themes including feedback on bus routes, parking, accessibility, traffic and landscaping.
All comments have been acknowledged with direct responses sent where appropriate, for example when people had a specific question or requested further detail that the Council could provide.
The feedback received is now being used to develop plans for the project, including the exploration of alternative layouts where appropriate. A document outlining how the feedback received is shaping plans is available to view at to https://calderdalenextchapter.co.uk/projects/a629-halifax-town-centre/tro-2023-results (external link) As the project progresses there will be further opportunities for people to have their say.
Calderdale Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet member with responsibility for Halifax master planning and regeneration, Cllr Tim Swift, said:
“This is an exciting time for Halifax, with widespread regeneration plans for town centre buildings, facilities and transport links, many of which are already completed or well underway.
“The A629 Phase 2 Halifax town centre project looks at how we travel around the town, with plans for improved connectivity and welcoming spaces.
“Earlier this year, we heard people’s thoughts about some of the transport plans as part of the project and I’d like to thank all those who took the time to look at and understand the proposals and shared their feedback.
“It’s so important that we hear from local people, as this allows us to address any concerns and develop plans with detail from those who know the area best.”
Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe said:
“I am delighted we have been able to help fund this scheme.
“The proposed works, close to the new Halifax Bus Station, will help us to deliver our West Yorkshire aims of becoming a better-connected region and a net-zero carbon economy by 2038.
“It is important that we bring the public with us on big projects like these, so I am pleased that feedback from residents and businesses has been used to inform these designs.”
For more information about the A629 phase 2 scheme, visit http://www.calderdalenextchapter.co.uk/projects/a629-halifax-town-centre(external link)
The A629 phase 2 scheme has received funding through the West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund, and the Leeds City Region Growth Deal – a £1 billion package of Government investment through the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP), delivered by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.
Supporting strong and resilient, thriving towns is a priority for the Council and contributes to the Vision 2024 for the borough. In the year 2024, Calderdale will celebrate its 50th birthday. Where do we want to be by 2024? Join the conversation by following #VisionCdale2024 on social media and visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision