By KLTV Newsdesk –

Cabinet adopts first district-wide transport strategy and backs Lane Rental Scheme to cut delays

Kirklees Council has approved two major steps towards transforming travel across the district: the adoption of the first-ever Kirklees Transport Strategy and plans to introduce a Lane Rental Scheme aimed at reducing disruption from roadworks.

The decisions, made at Cabinet on Tuesday 9 September, mark what is hoped to be a significant milestone in shaping a safer, more sustainable and more efficient transport network for residents, businesses and visitors.

Listening to Residents

Earlier this year, the council asked residents, businesses and community groups to share their views on daily journeys and future transport priorities.

The response was described as “overwhelming”, with safety, the cost of travel and the reliability of buses emerging as top concerns.

Every comment submitted was reviewed and played a role in shaping the new transport strategy, which aims to reflect the needs of diverse communities across both rural and urban parts of the district.

Councillor Moses Crook, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Transport, said the strategy comes at a critical time.

“Kirklees is currently undergoing some major investment in our towns, and it is essential we have a transport network that reflects the needs of everyone who lives and works here.

“It’s an exciting time for transport across the district as we invest in our bus and rail stations, cycle provision, footways and much more.

“We are committed to improving links between our towns and villages, creating more opportunities for people whilst addressing our environmental, social and economic priorities.

“I wish to thank everyone who has taken the time to complete the survey and share their views; it really has made a difference.

“The conversation about transport doesn’t end here; we will continue to listen and welcome future feedback.”

The strategy also aligns with the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan, ensuring Kirklees is well placed to secure investment and collaborate on regional priorities.

Work on the Transpennine Route Upgrade has led to disruption across the whole of Kirkees

Tackling Roadwork Delays

Alongside the new strategy, the Cabinet approved proposals to introduce a Lane Rental Scheme, designed to minimise disruption caused by roadworks on key routes.

The scheme will encourage contractors to carry out work outside peak times.

Where that is not possible, they could face charges of up to £2,500 per day for occupying busy roads during peak hours.

Councillor Tyler Hawkins, Cabinet Member for Highways and Waste, said the scheme would give Kirklees a stronger hand in keeping traffic moving.

“We all want to see less disruption and delay from roadworks, which is exactly what the Lane Rental Scheme will help us to do.

“This scheme gives us new tools to encourage better coordination, better planning, and more efficient working between the council, contractors and utility companies — particularly on our most critical routes.

“We are introducing the Lane Rental Schemes alongside neighbouring councils after it has already been shown to be effective in achieving better coordination and cooperation in other areas. I’m excited to see the same here in Kirklees.

“This decision comes at a time of big changes as we are seeing lots of investment and improvements to our infrastructure, which will bring long-term gains for our home.

“We want to keep things moving as smoothly as possible as we unlock more investment for Kirklees, and the Lane Rental Scheme is a key part of that.”

Next Steps

The council will now submit an application to the Department for Transport. If approved, the Lane Rental Scheme could come into effect in summer 2026.

Meanwhile, residents are encouraged to look out for updates under the council’s Connecting Kirklees initiative, which will showcase how the new Transport Strategy is shaping the future of travel across the district.