The Armley Gyratory is a key junction on the Inner Ring Road to the west of Leeds city centre. It is a major entry/exit point for traffic travelling through and into the city with an estimated 100,000 vehicles passing through it daily (pre Covid-19).
In March 2021, following extensive public consultation and feedback, plans were finalised to develop and improve the key route.
In the past few months, the route has seen the removal and installation of footbridges with the new bridges constructed to the latest specifications, providing a wider bridge deck of four metres and accessible ramps.
Last week, Spence Lane, the second of three footbridges completed around the Gyratory, was transported to the route under police escort.
7. Improvement of green areas
The new landscaping will see a mix of planting, including perennial wildflower meadow, shrubs, and semi-mature trees. These will be tolerant to air pollution and provide additional biodiversity. | Liam Sowden, Sowden Captures Photo: Liam Sowden, Sowden Captures
8. Work to widen paths around route
The scheme aims to improve the ease and safety of travel for pedestrians and cyclists, promoting sustainable transport choices - this has included work to widen the surrounding footpaths. | Jonathan Gawthorpe Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
9. Armley Gyratory ahead of work to complete the Gelderd Road footbridge in April
The scheme will allow traffic to flow more freely, with improved signalling (e.g., new traffic lights at the junction with Gelderd Road and at the entrance from A643 Ingram Road Distributor) and altered timings of the traffic lights. | Jonathan Gawthorpe Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
10. Pedestrian routes improved
Existing pedestrian routes will be upgraded to modern standards and made safer, more pleasant, and more accessible with new landscaping and footpath widening. | Jonathan Gawthorpe Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
11. Old footbridges are removed
Gelderd Road footbridge, which is now 50-years-old and has a narrow 1.8m wide footway, was one of those to be removed from the junction. | Steve Riding Photo: Steve Riding
12. Giant crane removes footbridge
In October, Spence Lane footbridge was removed by one of the world’s most powerful all terrain cranes - all the new upgraded footbridges have been designed to ensure they will need less maintenance work in the future. | Steve Riding Photo: Steve Riding