Major changes are planned to the road network in Pontefract to support more than 1,600 proposed new homes.
Highways chiefs at Wakefield Council say highway infrastructure improvements are needed across the town to keep traffic flowing and stimulate regeneration.
The council is drawing up a master plan of highways improvements after 1,620 new homes were allocated for the town in the authority’s Local Development Framework.
The Local Development Framework – a blueprint for housing schemes across Wakefield district over the next ten years – was approved by councillors on Wakefield Council earlier this month.
The 1,620 new homes are planned for land north of The Chestnuts at Pontefract; land north and south of the railway between Knottingley and Ferrybridge Road; land east of Cobbler’s Lane; land at Willowdene Lane; land at the Western edge of Lady Balk and land off Monkhill Lane.
Coun Denise Jeffery, Wakefield Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and economic growth, said: “With the new housing plans for the area, improvements to local transport links will be very important.
“These plans make it easier for people to get in and out of Pontefract, which will encourage more people to live in, work and visit the area.”
Coun Jeffery said potential highways schemes under consideration include changes to junctions of the following roads: Southgate and Baghill Lane; South Baileygate and North Baileygate; North Baileygate and Mill Dam Lane; Mill Dam Lane and Ferrybridge Road.
Proposals for a one-way system under the railway bridge at Skinner Lane are also being considered.
Council chiefs say funding for the schemes will come from the Local Transport Plan, Department for Transport initiatives and from the developers of future housing sites allocated in the Local Development Framework.
The council is also seeking to improve cycling routes in Pontefract. Improvements, including new car parking facilities, are also planned at Monkhill rail station.
Public consultation will be carried out on specific highway schemes later this year.
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