Step aside HS2, there is another new route planned which could not only give Yorkshire’s residents easier access to two major cities but also improve health and fitness at the same time.

A Bradford to Leeds CityConnect ‘cycle super-highway’ could soon be arriving in West Yorkshire as a £29million scheme is proposed to link the two cities.

Aimed at reducing congestion on the roads, as well as promoting the healthy lifestyle, the route would be an alternative option for motorists fed up of the rush hour traffic.

CYCLE: Leeds is a bike-friendly city with dedicated lanes for cyclists down all major routes (as pictured on the Headrow) yet the CityConnect cycle superhighway would create a whole new traffic-free route for bikers to use
CYCLE: Leeds is a bike-friendly city with dedicated lanes for cyclists down all major routes (as pictured on the Headrow) yet the CityConnect cycle superhighway would create a whole new traffic-free route for bikers to use

Metro Chairman, and Councillor for Kippax and Methley, James Lewis, explained what he hoped the route would achieve.

He said: “By combining dedicated cycle paths, an upgrade to the canal tow path and 20mph zones feeding into the main route, CityConnect will provide people with a safe environment for cycling and walking.

“CityConnect will transform cycling between and within our cities and by providing people with more safe and attractive travel options, will help to reduce congestion on our roads with the subsequent economic benefit that brings.”

Consultation has now begun on the Bradford section of the cycle superhighway route which would cover the city centre and Thornbury, including Gain Lane and Dick Lane.

The public’s opinion on the matter has not been overlooked by the councillors, with a number of sessions held in Bradford to discuss ideas and proposals.

Issues being looked at include how the scheme might affect junction layouts as well as parking and access, while at the same time ensuring safety for cyclists, pedestrians and other road users.

Cllr Val Slater, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Housing, Planning and Transport, explained: “This is an important scheme that will improve the connectivity between our two cities and create new opportunities for businesses, jobs, housing and health.

“It is also about improving the way people in these areas of Bradford can get around and how they are impacted by the route including getting to work in some of our key areas.

“We are carrying out the consultation along the route so the people of Bradford and people who live nearby can have their say. I would encourage people to go along to the consultation events.”

The final consultation hearing is due to take place at Bradford Cathedral on 28th March from 6pm until 9pm, and is open to everybody.

For those who cannot attend but would like to voice an opinion, you can submit feedback by email on cityconnect@wypte.gov.uk, Twitter @cityconnect1, or visit the website www.cyclecityconnect.co.uk for more details.