Ings Road revamp: Plan to improve 'Wakefield's biggest car park' gets go-ahead

Ings Road, which connects the eastern and western edges of the city centre, is blighted by busy traffic and a 'dangerous' roundabout connecting it to Denby Dale Road by Sainsbury's.

The revamp will include changes to the roundabout's layout, alongside more pedestrian crossings, a cycle lane and a right-turn from Ings Road onto Thornes Lane.

Starting in 2022, the works will take around a year to complete.

Speaking at a council Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, where the plans were approved, Councillor Michael Graham said the proposals were a game-changer for the city.

Coun Graham said: "I lived on Ings Road for three years and I'm very aware of all the issues down there, particularly at rush hour on an evening, going eastbound.

"I know the road had the name of Wakefield's biggest car park, and it probably still does! It's just cars back-to-back all the way up sometimes.

"I hope these plans will solve a lot of the issues.

Describing the Denby Dale Road roundabout as "problematic", Coun Graham added: "I had quite a serious crash there where my car was written off and I wouldn't want to experience that again.

"But it's not just cars that have a problem, it's pedestrians as well.

"It's very difficult to cross in every direction.

"Addressing that is probably the highlight of this, and it will make it more accessible."

The redevelopment will mark the final phase of a long-term programme of works to improve roads around Wakefield city centre, known as The Emerald Ring.

Marsh Way, the Kirkgate roundabout, Quebec Street, Westgate and Mulberry Way are among the areas to have benefited

Council leader Denise Jeffery added: "I spent many years walking home from Wakefield down to Thornes.

"Crossing there is virtually impossible and you take your life into your hands down there.

"It is one of the most dangerous roundabouts I think."

Local Democracy Reporting Service