Part of the £29 million CityConnect project to create a 14-mile-long green route between East Leeds and the centre of Bradford, CityConnect will make it easier and safer to get around on foot and by bike, giving better access, improving travel options and reducing road congestion.
Work is now continuing on the remainder of the 10 mile towpath between Kirkstall and Shipley which will be opened in stages and is due to be fully completed by early summer.
Good progress
Canal & River Trust manager Nick Smith said: “This is a fantastic project which will improve links between these two great cities. The new towpath surfacing is an integral part of this work and it's great to see good progress being made with the first section of the towpath being re-opened.
“Not only will the new towpath surfacing benefit the CityConnect project, but also the everyday user of the towpath including walkers, joggers, anglers and boaters. The canal system is a tranquil haven and these improvements will help make it more accessible to all.”
Partnership
CityConnect is a partnership between Leeds City Council, City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA). £18.1 million of the funding comes from the Department of Transport Cycle City Ambition Grant and the remaining £11 million is matched locally though the Local Transport Plan and other funds.
