Plans revealed to pedestrianise area around Corn Exchange

Leeds City Council has announced proposals to pedestrianise the area directly outside the building, including part of Call Lane.

The plans would mean improved access for pedestrians and cyclists, while ensuring buses can navigate "more reliably" through the city.

An artist's impression of what the area could look like shows benches and trees outside the Corn Exchange.

It comes after the council asked for feedback over the summer over £1.7m proposals for City Centre Gateways, which includes the area around the Corn Exchange.

Connecting Leeds, a council strategy on improving the city's public transport infrastructure, wants to enhance the quality of space in Leeds city centre and reduce the amount of congestion and improve air quality.

Work is already being undertaken on improving the Headrow, while plans have also been announced to completely pedestrianise Cookridge Street.Other areas earmarked for a revamp include Boar Lane, Vicar Lane, Swinegate Junction, New York Street, Bridge End and Meadow Lane.

"These plans show huge improvements for public transport reliability, reducing delays and giving buses priority to easily get through the city centre.

"They will also make it easier for people to move about by foot or by bike.

"We're also keen to see what people think about proposals for more car free public spaces and outdoor recreation. Our aim is to transform our city into a greener and more attractive place, with fewer vehicles and cleaner air, for everyone's benefit."

"Increasing bus patronage and reducing congestion in the city centre will also help meet the Combined Authority and its partners' commitment to improving local air quality and tackling climate change.

"I would encourage everyone to have their say on these widespread improvements around the Corn Exchange as well as plans to transform Leeds Bus Station either online by coming along to one of the planned drop-in events."

Local businesses, residents and general public can have their say online by visiting: www.leeds.gov.uk/ConnectingLeeds by 4 November.