Yorkshire Route 163 Adjusts for Road Closure

Route 163 buses will terminate at Vicar Lane until April 2026 due to road closure

2026-04-29, Moovit News Team

Route 163 Diverts to Vicar Lane Through April 2026

Arriva UK Bus riders on route 163 will see their trips end at a different location starting today due to a road closure. The bus operator announced the diversion began at 6 p.m. today and will remain in effect until April 30, 2026. Services on the 163 route will terminate at Vicar Lane instead of their usual terminus, then resume at the NCP car park.
Arriva UK Bus route 163 bus at Vicar Lane stop with passengers boarding during evening service hours

Road Closure Forces Service Modification

The extended diversion stems from a road closure affecting the route's normal path through the city center, according to Arriva UK Bus. The company said the change is necessary to maintain service while construction or roadwork continues in the affected area. Transit agencies typically implement diversions when infrastructure projects or emergency repairs block regular routes, though officials didn't specify the exact nature of the closure requiring this particular modification.

Two Stops Bypassed During Diversion

Two bus stops won't be served during the diversion period: City Square H southbound and Corn Exchange H eastbound. Buses will terminate at Vicar Lane, then deadhead to the NCP car park to resume regular service from that point. The company didn't say how many daily trips operate on route 163 or how many riders typically use the affected stops. Passengers needing to reach destinations near the bypassed stops will need to find alternative routes or walk from Vicar Lane.
City center bus stop with route information display showing service diversion notice for route 163

Year-Long Timeline for Service Restoration

The diversion will continue for approximately 12 months, ending April 30, 2026, according to Arriva UK Bus. Officials didn't provide updates on whether the timeline could change if roadwork finishes early or faces delays. The company said it'll maintain the modified routing throughout the closure period to ensure consistent service for riders who adjust their travel patterns.

Riders Should Plan Alternative Connections

Passengers who regularly use City Square H or Corn Exchange H should plan alternative ways to reach their destinations during the year-long diversion. Arriva UK Bus said riders can contact customer services for support with trip planning. Moovit provides real-time updates for route 163 and can help riders navigate the temporary service changes with alternative routing options.