Cyclists hit back over traffic plans
CYCLE LANE SCHEME HAD ATTRACTED CRITICISM
CYCLISTS have welcomed the proposed improvement work to the A629 Wakefield Road, after the scheme had been criticised by some.
Developed as a combined effort between Kirklees Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority, the plans hope to make it easier to travel between Huddersfield town centre and Waterloo, and help tackle the climate emergency by offering more sustainable alternatives to driving.
Covering a two-mile stretch from Shorehead Roundabout, through Aspley, Moldgreen and Greenside on to Waterloo Junction, one aspect of the plans includes the creation of segregated cycle lanes, a move which has polarised the local community.
While many residents have been vocal in their disapproval of the plans, others have been far more positive.
“It’s a great idea, I hope it works out,” said Peter Copeland. “Similar schemes around the world have reduced congestion, made places nicer to visit and increased footfall in local shops. Streets should be for people first, not cars.”
The scheme is also thought to be of particular interest to students in the area, who may be looking for greener ways to travel in order to study.
“It will provide a fast and efficient means for many students to attend Kirklees College and Huddersfield University,
and an alternative commuting option for employees of the many businesses situated on the A629,” said Robert Clarke.
The sentiment was echoed by experienced cyclist John Mason. “If it helps people to feel safer cycling to work, great. And it might take cars off the road at busy periods.”
As well as cutting the carbon footprint by offering a sustainable alternative to driving, the cycle lanes also hope to encourage new cyclists to get pedalling.
“If people drove less and cycled to short destinations rather than use cars and complain, they’d be healthier and at the same time cause less pollution,” said Peter Chiverton.
“There are people that want to cycle more and don’t as they feel unsafe due to the amount of cars and other vehicles on the roads.”
With Kirklees Council pledging to become carbon neutral by 2038, the recent shift towards promoting sustainable alternatives to driving is hoped to dramatically cut air pollution in the area and reduce the associated health risks. But cycling itself is not without risk either.
“Unfortunately there are quite a few difficult pinch points in our roads where it makes cycle commuting a very risky business,” explained Ian Higgins.
Residents wishing to have their say are encouraged to do so at: https:// www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/ a629