Thousands of motorists use the Leeds Inner Ring Road everyday to get across the city. Yet few will be aware of the untold story of how the project was hindered by delays, controversy and everything in between. It was devised in the 1950s, started in 1964 and yet only completed in the 2000s. Today we use photos from the YEP archive to bring that story to life. READ MORE: York Road in 29 photos - A snapshot of life on this busy east Leeds route through the years
7. October 1964
Technical and engineering innovation has been the hallmark of the project as demonstrated by stage one, 3,600ft stretch from Westgate roundabout to Claypit Lane which it was agreed should be built in a cutting and a tunnel. | jpimedia
8. Leeds inner ring road
As the route passed through land owned by Leeds University and Leeds General Infirmary, the 1,200ft-long Westgate Tunnel section was built to such a strength the ground above could be developed. Pictured in August 1973. | YPN Photo: YPN
9. Leeds inner ring road
A coal seam up to 10ft thick in places was discovered during excavations. It was dug out separately and 2,000 tons delivered to the National Coal Board. | YPN Photo: YPN
10. Leeds inner ring road
The first stage was complete in January 1967. An estimated 10,000 people took the opportunity to walk along the route and take photographs before it was officially opened. | YPN Photo: YPN
11. Leeds inner ring road
A view looking south at building work on the Inner Ring Road in November 1968. A bridge is in the foreground with a 'Shand' sign on it. In the distance the BBC can be seen. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Leeds inner ring road
A section of the Inner Ring Road under construction at the west end of New York Road in November 1968. Heatons (Leeds) Ltd. costume makers visible in the background. The end of a truck is visible on the right. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net