'˜Vital' work to start on Leeds bypass road after safety fears

Campaigners had called for a reduction in the speed limit on the Drighlington Bypass over fears for safety when people are crossing the road.

Leeds City Council has this week reduced the limit on the stretch of the A650 from 50mph to 40mph, between its junctions with Wakefield Road and Whitehall Road.

And next week, the council will start work to create pedestrian refuges to help people cross the carriageway safely.

Morley MP Andrea Jenkyns, who raised concerns about the road with the council, said: “I am glad to see that these vital works are finally getting underway.

“I had many residents get in touch with me to voice their concerns regarding this stretch of road, and following this I got in contact with Leeds City Council to represent their concerns and encourage the improvement of safety around the bypass.

“I know that many of the residents who got in contact with me to express their concerns will be delighted with this news.”

More than 1,000 people signed a petition which was launched in December last year after a young rugby player from Leeds was seriously injured in a collision on the bypass.

Bradford Bulls under-16 scholarship stand-off Reagan Tolson suffered a fractured pelvis and internal bleeding in the crash last November.

The road will be closed from Monday until Thursday, from 7pm-8am, while the work is carried out.

Vehicles will be diverted from the bypass onto Wakefield Road, King Street and Whitehall Road until the scheme is completed.