A significant road improvement initiative is getting underway as part of a large-scale transport development programme.

The work impacts Dawsons Corner and the Stanningley Bypass.

It forms part of a £44.179 million enhancement project intended to ease traffic congestion, cut journey times between Leeds and Bradford, and offer safer conditions for all road users.

The programme is scheduled to last four weeks from Monday, July 27 to Tuesday, August 26.

The scheme remains on schedule for a 2027 completion

Councillor Peter Carlill, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, said thanks to residents and road users for their ongoing patience during construction at Dawsons Corner.

Progress is proceeding well, and the programme is expected to finish early next year as planned.

Feedback from the local community has been largely supportive, and residents and businesses have contributed valuable insights to help minimise inconvenience where possible.

Drivers should anticipate disruption

The improvements, encompassing road repairs and resurfacing, have been arranged for the school summer break when traffic levels tend to be reduced.

Nevertheless, hold-ups are likely to occur, particularly during busy periods.

A contraflow arrangement will be introduced on the Stanningley Bypass, enabling vehicles to travel in both directions while work proceeds safely.

Southbound contraflow will operate from 8pm on July 27 until August 10, with northbound contraflow commencing at 5am on August 11 and continuing until August 21.

Temporary traffic controls will run continuously throughout the day and night, with a reduced speed restriction of 30mph in place.

Road closures scheduled

Partial closures are anticipated during the installation and transition of traffic management measures, with official diversion routes in place for drivers.

Complete overnight closures close to Swinnow Lane will occur on August 24 and 25, between 8pm and 5am.

Further overnight restrictions are planned for July 27, July 28 as a backup, August 10, and August 21 to install, switch over, and dismantle the contraflow arrangement.

These enhancements follow construction carried out across the previous four summers, comprising more than 140 carriageway repairs along the bypass.

Once finished, the programme will deliver more reliable bus journey times, safer crossing points for those on foot and bicycles, and boost economic development across West Yorkshire.

Councillor Carlill said the council meticulously plans and arranges major highway projects across the city to reduce inconvenience wherever feasible, including scheduling this phase during the summer holiday period.

Nonetheless, delays are anticipated and people are being urged to allow extra time for their journeys.