Changes to improve traffic flow at a busy Huddersfield crossroads have moved a step closer.

Last year the first stage of public consultation took place into plans for the Fartown junction, where Bradford Road meets Spaines Road and Fartown Green Road.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority is working with Calderdale, Kirklees and Bradford councils on a £75 million scheme to improve the A641 Bradford Road along its entire length from Huddersfield to Bradford, via Brighouse.

On average the road carries around 38,000 vehicles along its length and suffers from traffic congestion and poor air quality. The Fartown junction is just a small part of the A641 Improvement Scheme which has five separate sections, including a section for Huddersfield.

During 2021, a consultation took place on a shortlist of schemes and the feedback received was used to develop the preferred option, which was then approved by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority in early 2022.

READ MORE: How we reported on the consultation last year

Work is now underway to refine the proposals further and local residents and businesses, as well as those who use the route, are being asked to share their feedback as part of an engagement exercise.

The consultation runs until Friday January 6 2023 with final proposals to be announced next summer.

The changes to the Fartown junction will see the left turn out of Bradford Road into Spaines Road removed and two lanes introduced coming out of Spaines Road turning left into Bradford Road towards Brighouse.

Some traffic islands will be removed and crossing distances shortened to improve safety for pedestrians. There will also be improvements to make it easier for cyclists to join the Birkby-Bradley Greenway.

People can view and comment on the plans at https://www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/a641  This page also includes a ‘You said, we did’ document, which gives an overview of how feedback from previous engagement has been used to identify and shape a preferred scheme.

Clr Eric Firth, Kirklees Council’s Cabinet member for transport, said: “It’s excellent news that these improvement works are moving forward on this important project.

“In partnership with Calderdale and Bradford councils, we look forward to seeing work progress over the next few years.

“When complete, the improvements to this key gateway will unlock opportunities for economic growth across the region from Huddersfield to Brighouse, Bradford and beyond.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “I’m pleased to be working in partnership with Bradford, Calderdale and Kirklees councils to make it easier to walk, cycle and use public transport, as well as improving journeys for people travelling by car.

“It is more important than ever that we continue to invest in a modern, accessible transport network, which supports economic growth by connecting more people with jobs, training and education.”

Face-to-face consultation sessions will be held at Brighouse Bus Station on Saturday December 10 (10am-12noon); Wednesday December 14 (9am-1pm); and Monday December 19 (1pm-5pm).

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