Kirklees Council is set to approve its new Transport Strategy which aims to put active travel – walking, cycling or wheeling – and public transport at its heart.
The council’s Cabinet is today (Tuesday September 9) expected to approve the document which outlines the council’s aims for transport across the district.
Huddersfield’s public transport infrastructure is currently seeing major investment through the TransPennine Route Upgrade, a new £70 million Huddersfield Railway Station and the new £27 million Huddersfield Bus Station.
Meanwhile, West Yorkshire’s bus service is being brought back under public control by the Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin (below). It is hoped that will make for more reliable services and improved routes.
The council wants a “joined-up network” so that people can “choose what they consider is the most suitable mode of travel” for their journey.
They want people to have “multiple transport choices over and above the private car.”
The document says: “If you need to go to the local shop, we want you to have the option to be able to walk or cycle in a safe and pleasant environment.
“If you need to get from your home to work, we want to ensure that you have reliable, affordable and well-integrated public transport which gets you where you need to go on time and in comfort.
“The availability of different travel options is the key to improving connectivity and accessibility across Kirklees.
“Success of this strategy will be determined by the implementation of these policies in our decision making, investment pipeline planning and scheme delivery.”
Here’s some interesting stats contained in the strategy:
In compiling the strategy, Kirklees Council held extensive public consultation and had a total of 2,112 responses which it said was an “excellent response rate, compared to other council consultations.”
Safety, the cost of travel and the reliability of buses were some of the main concerns raised by local people and all those views were fed into the strategy document.
Clr Moses Crook, deputy council leader and Cabinet member for housing and transport, said: “Kirklees is currently undergoing some major investment in our towns, and it is essential we develop a transport network that reflects the needs of everyone who lives and works here.
“It’s an exciting time for transport across the district as we invest in our bus and rail stations, cycle provision, footways and much more.
“We are committed to improving links between our towns and villages, creating more opportunities for people whilst addressing our environmental, social and economic priorities.”
He added: “I wish to thank everyone who has taken the time to complete the survey and share their views, it really has made a difference.
“The conversation about transport doesn’t end here. We will continue to listen and welcome future feedback.”
The Transport Strategy is the first of its kind for Kirklees and aligns with the wider West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan.
Better buses and safer bus stations are promised when Mayor takes control of bus network
