Dewsbury Adds 20mph Zones for Safer Streets

Dewsbury introduces 20mph limits and one-way restrictions as part of £60m scheme

Dewsbury Adds 20mph Zone, Traffic Limits

Drivers in Dewsbury town centre will face new 20mph speed limits and traffic restrictions as part of a major improvement scheme. The changes affect Battye Street and several other roads across the town centre, with work set to be completed in phases over the next 12 months. The £60 million project aims to create safer walking and cycling routes throughout the area.

Context & Background

The traffic changes are part of two linked initiatives: the Dewsbury Walking and Cycle Improvement Scheme and the Dewsbury to Batley Sustainable Travel Corridor. Both projects received funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transforming Cities Fund, according to Kirklees Council. The improvements are designed to make the town centre more accessible for pedestrians and cyclists while managing vehicle traffic more effectively. The changes fit within the council's 10-year Blueprint for Dewsbury, which includes broader revitalization efforts across the town centre.

Key Details

One-way and no-entry restrictions will be implemented on Commercial Road, Mount Street, Victoria Road, and Rink Street. Pedestrian crossings on Bradford Road, Halifax Road, Aldams Road, Railway Street, and South Street will be upgraded to accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists. New cycle parking facilities will be installed at Pioneer House. Additional improvements include new tactile paving, kerbing, footway enhancements, vegetation cutbacks, drainage work, and road resurfacing across affected areas.

Timeline & Implementation

Work will be completed in phases over the next 12 months, officials said. Traffic management systems will be in place during construction to minimize disruption to drivers and residents. The phased approach allows the council to maintain access to the town centre while improvements are underway. Officials haven't specified exact start dates for individual phases or which streets will be affected first.

Rider Impact & Moovit

The changes are expected to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists while creating better connections between the town centre and surrounding areas. The improvements complement other developments in Dewsbury, including the revitalization of Dewsbury Arcade and the new Weaver Network bus station opening later this year. Moovit provides real-time updates and route planning for transit services in Dewsbury and throughout West Yorkshire.