FAQs
General Questions
Thornbury Roundabout / Leeds Road Gyratory
A647 Leeds Road / Garnett Street
Leeds Road / Laisterdyke
Bolton Road / Leeds Road / Stone Hall Road
Little Horton Lane / Park Lane
Why are you giving the advantage to buses over cars?
The primary goal of the Bus Hotspots scheme is to enhance access to public transport and improve the reliability of bus services in the Bradford district. Currently, bus services in parts of the Bradford district can be unreliable, particularly on routes frequently affected by congestion. This impact is most felt by those who rely on buses the most, including over 57,000 households in the city who don’t have access to a car.
By reducing these delays and making bus travel a more attractive and reliable option, we aim to reduce the need for car use, ease congestion, and improve travel for everyone.
What do you mean by ‘wheeling’?
When we refer to ‘wheeling’, this means anyone using a wheelchair, mobility aid, and people with pushchairs. Many of these are used by people who need assistance getting around, whether that be due to disability, age, or other factors.
Where are the other Bus Hotspot locations?
Six Bus Hotspot schemes are planned, including at Westgate.
The other five schemes are planned at key junctions and corridors across the district. These include:
These schemes aim to reduce delays to bus journeys and introduce improved pedestrian and cycling facilities where possible.
How exactly will these changes improve bus reliability?
We are proposing a range of improvements in the identified hotspot areas that are currently prone to congestion and delays. These changes are designed to reduce bus journey times and improve reliability for passengers.
The plans include the addition of new bus lanes at Westgate, which will create dedicated routes for buses to run along. By giving buses a clear route through congested areas, this can help to ensure that services run on time, making timetables more dependable, and journey times more predictable. Improved reliability helps bus operators run services more efficiently, which in turn allows for increased frequency, as buses can complete routes more quickly and return for the next trip sooner.
Over time, this can reduce the number of cars travelling through these areas, easing congestion further and creating positive improvements for bus users.
Won’t prioritising buses make things worse for other traffic?
The proposals aim to improve the overall flow of traffic in the hotspot areas, not just bus journeys. Giving buses priority in these key congestion areas will make services more reliable making journeys by bus a more attractive alternative to car use. This will in turn reduce the number of cars on the road, meaning less congestion and improved journeys for all.
Why has Westgate been chosen for improvements over other areas?
In August 2021, First Bus identified several sites across the Bradford district where bus services are prone to significant delays and where changes to the road layout could help to resolve this. Six bus hotspot areas have been selected for improvement, including Westgate which will be the first to be consulted on.
Will future hotspots receive similar interventions?
Similar interventions are planned in five other hotspot areas that are being prioritised for improvements. The changes will be focused on improving the reliability of bus services and will complement a number of other significant schemes that will collectively improve public transport across the Bradford district.
Who has come up with these proposals?
The proposals have been developed by experienced traffic planning officers at Bradford Council in close partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and bus operators. Together, they worked collaboratively to identify the key hotspots where bus delays are most severe.
This approach ensures the plans are developed with the challenges in mind and shaped by those who manage and deliver the bus services. We will continue to refine the proposals based on the feedback we receive from the public and stakeholders during the consultation.
Can other vehicles use the bus lane?
us lane restrictions will remain the same as any bus lane in the Bradford district, with no private vehicle permitted to stop, wait or load at any time while the bus lane is in operation. On Westgate, taxis and cycles would be permitted in the bus lanes while they are in operation.
Emergency services are exempt from bus lane restrictions, and are able to travel along the bus lanes during operating hours if required.
Do bus lanes actually work?
Bus lanes have been proven to be effective in increasing bus reliability, improving traffic flow and public transport overall by providing a dedicated space for buses, allowing them to move freely without being held up by general traffic. This means buses are less likely to be delayed, making journey times more predictable and services more punctual.
Improved reliability is one of the key factors that encourages more people to choose public transport. When people know their bus will arrive and get them to their destination on time, they’re more likely to use it regularly.
Can taxis use bus lanes?
In Bradford, licensed hackney carriages (taxis) are allowed to use bus lanes designated as "Bus/Taxi" lanes. Private hire vehicles are not permitted in these lanes. Taxis also need to have a taxi meter and a lit roof light to advertise they are available for hire. These lanes will be available for taxis to use in Westgate.
Are there plans to introduce new bus services or increase the number of services?
Currently, bus routes and service frequency are set by individual bus operators. This means that decisions about introducing new services or increasing frequency are made by them. While our proposals will create conditions to support more frequent and reliable services, any changes to timetables or frequency remain the responsibility of the bus operators at this stage.
However, in March 2024, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority decided to bring bus services in the region back into public control through a franchising model. This will allow the Combined Authority to plan and manage bus routes, timetables, and fares directly. The process of awarding the first contracts will begin in October 2025, with the first publicly controlled (franchised) services expected to start operating from March 2027.
Westgate Proposals
The existing left-hand lane of the two general traffic lanes would be converted into a new inbound camera-enforced bus lane between City Road and Lumb Lane.
The left-turn slip road from B6144 Westgate onto Lumb Lane would be removed.
The inbound bus lane would continue from Rawson Road to Providence Street, providing a consistent route for buses into the city centre.
At Simes Street, we are proposing a slight reduction in road width to accommodate the bus lane while maintaining safe access for all vehicles.
Prohibiting the right-turn into Simes Street, travelling out of the city.
On Rawson Road, we plan to reduce the road width slightly and introduce a left-turn only layout. This change will improve traffic flow and help buses move more freely through this busy section.
A new outbound bus lane would be introduced between Providence Street and Baptist Place, alongside two general traffic lanes.
Where the bus lane ends, buses and general traffic continuing straight ahead would merge. Two right-turn lanes would remain for vehicles turning onto Drewton Road.
The cycleway connection opposite Infirmary Field would be improved, with new cycle lane segments added at the junctions with Baptist Place and St Thomas’s Road. Cyclists would also be allowed to use the new bus lane, providing a safer, separate route from general traffic.
To upgrade footpaths to improve accessibility for pedestrians and improve general safety.
To improve existing crossings and add new ones, whilst modifying some road junctions to make it easier and safer to cross busy roads.
To close two side roads (the Westgate entrance to Oastler Shopping Centre and St Thomas’ Road), which will reduce vehicle movements and create a calmer, more pedestrian-friendly environment.
Where will you get the space to add bus lanes?
We are primarily making use of the existing road space to introduce new inbound and outbound camera-enforced bus lanes and improvements. The proposals have been carefully designed to create dedicated space for buses within the available space that will allow them to move more efficiently through congested areas.
Travelling towards the city centre
The following adjustments to the road layout will be made to make this possible.
Travelling out of the city centre
How will the changes impact on car drivers?
We believe that everyone should have access to safe, reliable transport and be able to enjoy the benefits of mobility. However, the reality is that currently our roads primarily favour cars. Over 57,000 households in Bradford don’t have access to a car and not everyone who has a car wishes to use it for every journey, but they often have no choice because there aren’t enough reliable alternatives.
By improving the offer of alternative methods of travel, we will also reduce the number of vehicles on the road, which will help reduce congestion. This will benefit those who do need to take their car by reducing journey times when travelling through Westgate.
In terms of specific measures, we are proposing to close St Thomas’s Road to vehicles at the junction with Westgate. Along Westgate more generally, some crossings and traffic islands will be modified slightly to improve the overall flow of traffic.
How will the changes impact pedestrians?
The proposals for Westgate include several measures specifically designed to make the area safer and more accessible for pedestrians. Along Westgate, we are proposing:
We hope that these changes will make it easier and a more attractive option for people to travel through the area on foot.
How will the changes impact cyclists?
The proposals include measures that will benefit cyclists as well as making the area safer, easier and more pleasant to travel through. At Westgate, the existing cycleway which starts after Sedgefield Terrace, will be extended through key junctions, helping to improve the connection from Westgate and maintain clear separation between cyclists and cars. This dedicated space will reduce the risk of conflict between cycles and motor vehicles and improve safety, particularly at busy points where cyclists often feel most vulnerable. Cyclists will also be permitted to use the bus lanes, allowing them to avoid general traffic and benefit from more direct and less congested routes.
Improved footpaths and upgraded crossings will also benefit cyclists, making it easier and safer for cyclists to navigate junctions and connect to nearby cycle routes in the area, such as Cycle Route 66 and the West Bradford Cycle Superhighway.
These improvements are part of a broader aim to encourage active travel by making cycling a safer and more attractive option for short and medium-distance journeys.
Why are you proposing to close St Thomas’s Road ?
We are proposing to close St Thomas’s Road at the B6144 Westgate / Lumb Lane junction to improve road safety and traffic flows.
Five casualties, including two serious pedestrian and cyclist casualties, were recorded at this junction between 2018 and 2022. By creating a continuous footway across the junction arm, we will improve safety for pedestrians and road users.
A continuous footway is a section of pavement that runs uninterrupted across a side road, maintaining it’s level and surface whilst signalling clear priority for pedestrian and cyclists over vehicles.
The closure will allow the green light to stay on for longer at the junction, helping more vehicles get through and improving the flow of traffic heading out of Westgate.
Are you making any changes to the bus stops?
Across all the bus hotspots that we’ve identified, we are proposing to upgrade bus stops where necessary with new shelters, improved lighting and real-time service information to improve passenger safety and convenience.
Combined with our proposals to improve bus reliability, these improvements will help make bus travel a more comfortable and attractive option for all.
What will the hours of operation of the bus lane be?
The bus lanes along Westgate will operate during morning and afternoon peak hours Monday to Friday, ensuring maximum benefit for buses, helping to maintain reliable services during key periods.
Will parking be affected?
No parking will be removed as a result of our proposals along Westgate.
Will there be changes to bus routes or stop locations?
No changes to bus routes or stop locations are currently proposed as part of the changes at Westgate. The decision to change any bus routing or stop locations currently sits with the individual bus operators.
Will pedestrian safety be improved, particularly at crossings and junctions?
Improving pedestrian safety is one of the key aims of these proposals. At Westgate, we are proposing measures specifically aimed at making crossings and junctions safer and more accessible for pedestrians.
This includes upgraded footways to improve accessibility for all users, improved and new crossings points to make it easier to cross busy roads, modified junction layouts to minimise conflict with traffic, and the closure of some side roads which will reduce the number of vehicle movements in the area.
How do the proposals impact City Village?
City Village is a major regeneration project covering approximately 25 hectares of Bradford city centre, earmarked for the development of up to 1000 new homes. It aims to revitalise the heart of the city through new residential neighbourhoods and improved public spaces as well as new opportunities for revitalised independent retail, cafes, bars and spaces for businesses.
Two of the three development sites, including the Oastler Shopping Centre (which is due to be vacated and demolished) and Chain Street, are located near the Westgate area and are formally part of the City Village scheme.
The Masterplan for City Village is still under development following public consultation in 2024. While the proposed bus improvements at Westgate sit separately to these proposals, proposals have been developed taking into account the City Village plans. As part of this, access to Oastler Shopping Centre will be closed, and the right-turn bays on the A6181 Westgate will be removed to reallocate road space.
You can find out more about the City Village scheme by visiting the website: https://www.bradfordcityvillage.com/
Is the Bradford Shipley Route Improvement Scheme connected to this project?
n summer 2024, West Yorkshire Combined Authority consulted the public on different options for a new tram system in West Yorkshire. Three route options for a new Bradford Line (connecting Bradford and Leeds city centres) were included in these proposals.
One of the three route options may run through Thornbury Roundabout. However, no decision has been made on the preferred options or their precise routing at this stage. The Combined Authority are currently in the process of analysing the feedback received during the consultation and continuing to evolve the design. Once a decision on a preferred route is made, the revised proposals will be put forward for public consultation in 2026.
I heard about potential improvements to Thornbury Roundabout. What is happening there?
Thornbury Roundabout (also known as the Leeds Road Gyratory and Gipsy Street Roundabout) was identified by First Bus as one of six bus hotspots in the Bradford district where delays are most common. The proposals for this specific area are still in the design stage which, once developed, we will go out to consult with local residents, businesses and stakeholders to gather their feedback.
What happens if Mass Transit goes through Thornbury Roundabout?
n summer 2024, West Yorkshire Combined Authority consulted the public on 10 route options for a new tram system in West Yorkshire. Three route options for a new Bradford Line (connecting Bradford and Leeds city centres) were included in these proposals.
One of the three route options may run through Thornbury Roundabout. However, no decision has been made on the preferred options or their precise routing at this stage. The Combined Authority are currently in the process of analysing the feedback received during the consultation and continuing to evolve the design. Ongoing stakeholder and landowner engagement, survey and assessment work and transport modelling will be used alongside the consultation feedback to support the Combined Authority in identifying a preferred route. Once a decision is made, the revised proposals will be put forward for public consultation in 2026.
You can find more information on the Your Voice Mass Transit Hub: www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/hub-page/mass-transit
You can find more information on the Your Voice Mass Transit Hub: https://www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/hub-page/mass-transit
In summer 2024, West Yorkshire Combined Authority consulted the public on different options for a new tram system in West Yorkshire. Three route options for a new Bradford Line (connecting Bradford and Leeds city centres) were included in these proposals.
One of the three route options may run through Thornbury Roundabout. However, no decision has been made on the preferred options or their precise routing at this stage. The Combined Authority are currently in the process of analysing the feedback received during the consultation and continuing to evolve the design. Once a decision on a preferred route is made, the revised proposals will be put forward for public consultation in 2026.
You can find more information on the Your Voice Mass Transit Hub: https://www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/hub-page/mass-transit
Funding
How will the Bus Hotspot schemes be funded?
The £700,000 expected cost of the scheme will be fully funded by the UK Government and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, using funding streams designated exclusively for sustainable transport improvements. There will be no cost to Bradford Council or Council Tax payers.
Can’t the money be spent on something else?
The money comes from UK government funding for sustainable transport projects which can only be spent on projects that improve public transport, walking, wheeling and cycling.
Why is Bradford Council spending money on this project?
This project is not being funded through Bradford Council’s local budget. If approved, it would be fully funded by government funding streams which can only be spent on transportation improvements.
The proposed improvements are targeted at areas with some of the highest levels of bus delays in the district. These improvements are essential to making public transport more reliable and attractive to use. At the same time, the scheme will enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists, creating a more pleasant environment for everyone who travels through the identified hotspot areas.
What about the other four Bus Hotspot schemes? How will these be funded?
The other Bus Hotspot schemes will be delivered using government funding allocated for transport. As with the funding sought for Westgate, this can only be used for projects that deliver sustainable transport and related improvements.
Consultation
What’s the point in providing feedback, won’t you just go ahead anyway?
The proposals we’re bringing forward are only early-stage at this point – the feedback and suggestions we receive during the public consultation will be used to review the proposals and help to refine the measures with the public’s feedback in mind. Once the project team has reviewed the proposals with the public’s feedback, the revised proposals will then be submitted to the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for review and approval.
Who can I speak to about the proposals?
The project team can be reached directly by email bus-hotspots@future-bradford.co.uk, freephone 0808 196 8848 or freepost Freepost BFD Highways (no stamp needed). These channels are monitored 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays), and the freephone has an answerphone facility for enquiries received outside of this time.
Can you share information in a different language or format, e.g. braille?
Our team can share translated or alternative format materials on request. Please contact the project team through our dedicated communications channels if you would like materials shared in another language or format.
I can’t make the drop-in event, are there any other events planned?
Outside of the drop-in events already listed, we are not planning any further events. However, you can have your say on the proposals by completing the consultation questionnaire, or by getting in touch with the project team directly by email bus-hotspots@future-bradford.co.uk, freephone 0808 196 9119 or freepost Freepost BFD Highways. Alternatively, we can also post the consultation questionnaire to your home, which you can complete and send back to our freepost address free of charge.
How will feedback be used to modify the plans?
Once the public consultation has closed, the project team will consider all the feedback received and use it to review the proposals. Once the team has finalised the design of the projects, we will submit them to the West Yorkshire Combined Authority for review and approval.
What opportunities will the public have to engage with the project after the initial consultation?
Should the scheme be approved by Bradford Council, the project would be implemented through a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). TROs require a formal period of statutory consultation where members of the public can comment, share their concerns or object within a four-week period. Should the project be approved by Bradford Council, the engagement around the TRO is expected to take place late 2025/early 2026
Will residents be kept informed during each stage of development?
Yes, we will ensure the communities living in the areas are kept up to date as the project advances. We will continue to engage with residents when we have more information to share, and any future updates will be shared to the project websites: