Local people are being invited to find out more and have their say about plans for the fourth project in the £120m A629 improvement programme between Halifax and Huddersfield.
The project complements the work of the other stages of the A629 improvement scheme being delivered by Calderdale and Kirklees Councils, by improving walking, cycling and bus travel along the corridor. The improvements will also enable local growth and reduce journey times.
Plans include the creation of a quality bus corridor, with improved bus stops and real time information, creating the opportunity for bus operators to introduce an express service between Huddersfield and Halifax. Junction improvements will also reduce congestion and increase capacity at West Vale.
Cycling and walking opportunities will also be transformed, with new and improved routes, and better links to key destinations, such as hospitals, Halifax and Elland rail stations, and Elland, Huddersfield and Halifax town centres. These routes will include off-highway green routes and on-highway cycle infrastructure.
In November 2018 the Outline Business Case for the project was submitted to the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for funding through its West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund . The Fund is supported through the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership Growth Deal – a £1 billion package of Government investment delivered in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to accelerate growth and create jobs across Leeds City Region.
A decision on the Outline Business Case is expected shortly. If approved, the next step would be to work on the design. Therefore, it’s important that people are able to give their feedback now, so that the design can be informed by local people, businesses and commuters.
Calderdale and Kirklees Councils are hosting drop-in sessions along the route to give local people the opportunity to meet the team. Attendees can talk to staff working on the project, ask questions and give feedback. These sessions are:
- Cedar Court Hotel, Ainley Top, Monday 11 February, 3-7pm
- Elland Methodist Church, Monday 18 February, 3-7pm
- Gledholt Methodist Church, Marsh, Monday 25 February, 3-7pm
- Huddersfield Town Hall, Wednesday 27 February, 3-7pm
- Halifax Town Hall, Tuesday 5 March, 3-7pm
People can also review the proposals and have their say online at www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk(external link).
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Strategy, Cllr Barry Collins, said:
“Many of the improvements in this phase of the A629 project are focused on improving bus journeys between Halifax and Huddersfield, cutting down journey times and providing better facilities for cyclists and pedestrians.
“These drop-in sessions, in partnership with neighbouring Kirklees Council, will allow people to see the early plans, ask questions and share feedback to help us shape formal design work.”
Cllr Kim Groves, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee said:
“We have committed around £150 million of investment though the West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund to transport schemes across the City region and the five-phase upgrade of the A629 is the largest in the programme.
“Overall the scheme will result in improved journey times, better public transport reliability and new cycling and walking facilities along the key route between the towns of Halifax, in Calderdale, and Huddersfield, in Kirklees, and will support economic growth.
“I would urge anyone who lives or works along the route, or who uses it regularly, to have their say by taking part in the consultation and attending one of the drop-in events.”
Kirklees Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy, Cllr Peter McBride said:
“These works are an essential part in improving traffic flow and lowering commuting times between our neighbours in Calderdale and Kirklees, and so helping our communities to thrive.
“New infrastructure that complements the existing scheme, will improve journeys for pedestrians, cyclists and bus users. We want to encourage people to take more active methods of travel, helping to make Calderdale and Kirklees healthier places to live.
“I hope people take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the scheme and have their say.”
The Chair of Kirklees Cycling Campaign, John Lewis, said:
“It is very encouraging that both Calderdale and Kirklees councils have stated their commitment to designing routes for active and sustainable modes of travel, such as cycling and walking.”
For progress updates and more information about other exciting developments in Calderdale and Kirklees, visit www.calderdalenextchapter.co.uk(external link) and www.kirklees.gov.uk/majorschemes(external link).
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.