Motorists warned as works near completion

As part of the multi-million pound Merchant Gate regeneration scheme, a new road called Mulberry Way is being built to ease congestion problems and give access to the new mixed-use development.

The final phase of roadworks is about to begin, which means part of Back Lane will be permanently closed from Good Friday, tomorrow.

Once closed, traffic will not be able to travel all the way up Back Lane to its junction with Drury Lane – it will stop outside The Orangery. Access to The Orangery will be maintained throughout and once the new road layout is in place.

After these works, Mulberry Way will be open to traffic on April 12.

Once Mulberry Way is in operation, Burton Street will be closed for two weeks to allow for the building of the new carriageway, and pedestrian crossings.

Once Burton Street reopens, the flow of traffic along it will be reversed and traffic will travel towards Cliff Parade and Drury Lane, both of which will then take traffic one way towards Westgate.

Andy Wallhead, Wakefield Council's corporate director for regeneration, said: "It's important for motorists to be aware of this phase of works and subsequent long-term changes to the road layouts. The area will be fully signposted and information available on our website too."

Emma Cordingley, development director at English Cities Fund, which is behind the Merchant Gate regeneration project, said: "The development is set to attract many high-profile businesses to Wakefield, providing jobs for local people and increasing custom for retailers and other traders in the city centre.

"It will also provide new homes, and overall will help to make Wakefield a vibrant 21st century city," she said.

For more information visit www.wakefield.gov.uk/roadworks