£4m highway scheme revised thanks to views of the public

Plans were put forward last year for a scheme and following public consultation, a decision was made to revise the scheme.

Wakefield Council cabinet member for regeneration Coun Denise Jeffery said: "The council has listened to the comments from the public about the previous scheme and are now seeking views on the new proposal, which have been developed in conjunction with local residents.

"The consultation period will run throughout July and into August, with large-scale plans displayed in public buildings.

"We hope as many people as possible will come and have a look at the plans and make comments." The latest plans – which are aimed at reducing congestion and speeding up journey times in the city centre and St John's area – have been developed in alongside residents and feedback from the last consultation.

For example, the one-way gyratory system around Leeds Road and Wentworth Street has been dropped. The inbound bus lane on Leeds Road to Northgate is set to be retained.

According to Wakefield Council, the local authority's new proposal will improve traffic flows around the west of the city centre and includes better crossing places for pedestrians.

Traffic travelling south from Bond Street to Bell Street would see improve-ments and a bigger pedestrianised public space would

be created in front of the County Hall building, linking to the cenotaph monument.

Subject to funding, work on the 4m highway scheme could start early next year.

Plans for the proposal are on display for viewing in foyers at Wakefield Town Hall, Lightwaves, and Newton Bar planning building.

People can comment on the plans until August 6 by writ-

ing to Transport Planning, Wakefield Council, Newton Bar, Leeds Road, WF1 2TX, emailing [email protected] or visiting www.northwakefieldgateway.com for more information.