The next steps for the planned improvements around the A641, a key route through Brighouse, will be discussed by Calderdale Council’s Cabinet.
Calderdale Council is working with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority to deliver a series of improvements to better connect communities between Bailiff Bridge, Brighouse, and Woodhouse, and improve options for walking, wheeling, cycling and public transport around the area.
The A641 can carry over 20,000 vehicles a day in parts and suffers from traffic congestion and a lack of facilities for people choosing to walk and cycle. This not only impacts economic growth but also results in air quality issues, noise and a poor environment for local residents.
The A641 improvement scheme(external link) supports better travel along the route for all modes of transport. and the latest proposals have been developed using feedback from consultation and engagement with local people and organisations.
Proposals include:
- New cycleways;
- New walking and cycling routes away from roads;
- New and improved crossings;
- Bus priority measures;
- Safer junctions;
- New bridge over the canal in Brighouse;
- New public spaces;
- New and improved traffic lights; and
- New walking and cycling signage.
As part of the next steps for the project, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet will discuss the process of acquiring the land which is likely to be needed to progress the project.
A strategy for discussion and negotiation with landowners is currently being finalised. Members are being asked to note the progress and approve the use of Compulsory Purchase Order if required. This would only be used as a last resort, as efforts will be made to negotiate land purchase settlements.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Action and Housing, Cllr Scott Patient, said:
“The A641 project supports key council priorities including our ambitions for thriving towns and places and climate action work. Improving travel on this busy route will help make active travel choices more appealing, improve bus reliability, reduce carbon emissions, and improve air quality.
“Improving roads and transport infrastructure around the A641 supports the Local Plan objectives and our wider ambitions for south east Calderdale. It will also improve connections between communities to support active and healthy lifestyles.
“Cabinet will consider the necessary processes to enable the project to progress, including options for purchasing the land required to successfully deliver the improvements. This is a critical step forward for delivering the scheme which will help to unlock the potential of this part of the borough.”
The meeting of Calderdale Council’s Cabinet will take place on Monday 5 August 2024 at Halifax Town Hall from 4pm. The meeting can also be viewed online at https://calderdale.public-i.tv/core/portal/home(external link)
More information about the A641 improvement scheme is available at calderdalenextchapter.co.uk/projects/a641-improvement-scheme(external link).
The project has been allocated funding through the Combined Authority’s West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund.