First look at new highway bridge over the canal from Elland bypass

Members will consider revised plans for the Calder and Hebble project, as part of the A629 improvement programme which is aimed at reducing congestion on the main route between Huddersfield and Halifax.

Work would include a new link road between the A629 and Stainland Road via a new bridge spanning the Calder and Hebble Navigation with a new roundabout on Stainland Road, widening Elland Wood Bottom and Stainland Road.

To bring benefits to commuters, visitors and businesses, a dual carriageway from Calder and Hebble junction through to new traffic lights at the Jubilee Road junction will be introduced.

In addition, there will be a new northbound bus lane on Stainland Road to improve bus reliability and journey times. The reduction of bus journey times will provide an opportunity to reduce single car occupancy, and associated carbon dioxide emissions, on this major route.

Calderdale Council’s Regeneration and Strategy Director, Mark Thompson, said: “The A629 provides an essential link between Halifax and the M62 motorway and this busy route is used by over 40,000 vehicles a day.

“The planned improvements at the Calder and Hebble junction will manage these heavy traffic flows far better and accommodate for future growth; the scheme also delivers positive benefits for walking , cycling and public transport. The reduction in congestion helps minimise harmful emissions from standing traffic, and their impact on local air quality.”

Preliminary designs have also been adjusted to improve the highway positioning at the Jubilee Road junction.

The new plans move the road line a little to the east and reduce impact on the western side.

This will allow inclusion of a full width footway and cycle path and reduces the need for complex works around the Hebble Brook and Yorkshire Water works.

The new line would also deliver a knock-out to the derelict Punch Bowl pub which would be acquired and demolished as part of the development of a more attractive landscaped entrance to Halifax.

The West Yorkshire Combined Authority used the £1 billion Leeds City Region Growth Deal package to establish the West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund in 2014.

West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund schemes are designed to increase housing, employment and economic growth across the Leeds City Region and include new and expanded highways, improved access corridors and junctions for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles and enhanced provision of parking at rail stations and greater investment in public transport infrastructure.