A638 Doncaster Road, Wakefield - Corridor Improvement Programme

The CIP2 corridor was defined based on the locations of the worst problerms and the available budget and is limited to the section of the A638 Doncaster road between Chantry Bridge (A61 / A638 junction) and the A655 Black Road junction. The worst problems in terms of delay to all road users, occur on this section. The funding has been targeted at schemes that can be built by 2024.  The proposed measures to benefit cyclists and pedestrians are focused on safer / easier crossings over the A638 and the riverside path. There is insufficient space and budget to deliver a continuous cycle superhighway along the A638 itself   The council has longer term aspirations to provide new or improved facilities for cycling across the district. In the short term there is no identified budget to deliver improvements along the A638 corridor to Crofton / Sharlston and beyond. Alternative mostly off road routes are already available using the Trans Pennine Trail from the B6378 Shay Lane between Walton and Crofton,  and the Sandal Curves route. We acknowledge that these routes are indirect compared to Doncaster road and not convenient for all potential users in the Crofton area. They are not all weather routes and unlit. In the longer term we hope to be able to develop a network of well surfaced, safe routes close to or alongside major roads, and funding will be sort to deliver this.

Apologies for any confusion, but clearly the blue line links are intended to provide a defined connection to the improved riverside path. The very small gap on the consultation plan shouldn't be taken as a lack of connection. The footpath already exists at this location and a formalised cycle route connection would be created at this point.

Thank you for your comment.

Although the plans don’t include detailed proposals of improvements for cycling and walking at the junction, please be assured that we are aware of this requirement. Apologies if this point is not made clearly enough in the consultation material. The scheme plans for the bus lane options do include references to cycling and walking improvements. Please note that in all 3 options for the Black Road bus lane improvements, we are committed to reviewing the pedestrian and cycling provision at the junction of Black Road and Doncaster Road.

The text on the plan for option 1 includes a box that states “New works required to alter traffic islands to accommodate bus lane with crossings improved for walkers and cyclists”

The text on the plans for options 2 and 3 also  states “ Crossing provision for walkers and cyclists to be reviewed and improved”.  

If the submitted Outline Business Case is successful,  detailed design work will follow later in the year. The detailed design of the junction will include a thorough review of the current crossing provision for cyclists and pedestrians,  and will also include detailed proposals for improvements. The design consultants are currently undertaking road safety audits on all the proposals which may identify other things that are required. The expectation is that the Black Road crossings will be signalised.

It should however be noted that the improvements will be expected to focus on the movement between Black Road and the WERR cycling facilities as this connects to the proposed improved riverside path between the WERR and Chantry Bridge. 

From your comment, you clearly feel that the crossing need to be signalised. Although we have noted your concerns from the question you submitted, please can you ensure that you complete the survey and clearly outline what your expectations are for cycling and walking provision at this location and your views on the rest of the proposals.

We trust that this addresses your concerns, but if you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.