Work begins to turn Leeds city centre into 20mph zone

Sharing a video of a worker painting the new '20' zone signs, Connecting Leeds said: "We’ve been busy making Leeds city centre a mph zone essential car travel only.

"Please don't speed. Keep pedestrians & cyclists safe.

"Reckless driving could cause an accident & take vital key workers away from combating the coronavirus."

Work to bring forward the introduction of the 20mph zone around the city centre was announced as part of Leeds Council's post-lockdown plans on May 6.

Pavements have also been temporarily widened to allow for social distancing.

A temporary new segregated cycle lane along the A65 will also be introduced.

Councillor Lisa Mulherin, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate change, transport and sustainable development, said: "When the lockdown starts to ease, it’s essential we can make it as safe as possible for people to get back out and about around the city and in their local neighbourhoods.

"Re-thinking road space to allow for wider footways will be essential for people accessing workplaces, schools and essential facilities, and these measures will play an important part in getting the city safely up and running again.

"As we ease out of the lockdown, prioritising walking and cycling, where possible can contribute to lowering our carbon footprint, maintaining improvements in air quality and improving the health of our residents."

"Over the last few weeks people have seen the benefits of a less car dominated society and we want to encourage this more."