Temporary Sowerby Bridge road closures to keep people safe during pandemic in place until 2021

The closures of Hollins Mill Lane and Hollins Lane in Sowerby Bridge from July 22 have started a lively social media debate as the roads could be potentially be closed until January 22, 2022, according to notices and there are claims there has been no consultation.

Posters, including several councillors, on Sowerby Bridge social media sites are split on the decision, some angry that roads are being closed to vehicles except for access but others arguing speeding has been an issue with cars mounting pavements to pass each other on the narrow roads.

Some are concerned about the impact of the closures on other roads in the town which are likely to see extra traffic.

It has also sparked debate about what traffic calming measures might be suitable on those routes.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet member for Climate Change and Environment, Coun Scott Patient, explained why the decision had been taken.

He said it was triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic with issues with speeding traffic a contributing factor.

“In response to COVID-19 guidelines, we’ve introduced a range of measures across the borough to help make our town centres as safe as possible for everyone.

“In Sowerby Bridge this includes the temporary closure of Hollins Mill Lane and Hollins Lane to allow more space for people to safely walk and cycle whilst supporting social distancing.

“COVID-19 is still present and we should all continue to keep at least two metres apart from people outside our households wherever possible.

“The route is popular with cyclists and also links up with the canal towpath and the Route 66 and 68 cycle paths, as well as being a designated pedestrian route to Ryburn Valley High School.

“Unfortunately speeding traffic is also commonplace and on Hollins Lane there is an issue with people driving on the pavement to avoid parked cars,” he said.

Coun Patient (Lab, Luddenden Foot) said the introduction of temporary closures will better enable safe social distancing for pedestrians and cyclists but all measures across Calderdale would be kept under review.

However, he added: “We may look to introduce more permanent safety measures on this road in future and any permanent changes to the road network would be subject to the usual statutory processes, which includes consultation with local residents.”