By KLTV Newsdesk –

Improvements aim to boost accessibility, safety, and community connection

A well-loved stretch of the Spen Valley Greenway between Cleckheaton and Liversedge is set to undergo significant improvements this summer, thanks to a major investment from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transforming Cities Fund.

The 2km (1.5-mile) section of the off-road path, which runs from Tesco in Cleckheaton to Knowler Hill Tunnel in Liversedge, will be closed from Monday 9 June for approximately six months while work is carried out. Kirklees Council and the charity Sustrans will deliver the project together, with signed diversions in place throughout the construction period.

Enhancing Access for All

The planned upgrades include a smoother rolling surface, a wider path, improved lighting and signage, and better access points. The aim is to make the route safer and more accessible for people of all ages and abilities, whether walking, wheeling, or cycling.

Councillor Moses Crook, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Transport, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “I’m delighted to see the improvement works on Spen Valley Greenway begin. This investment is a fantastic boost for the community, enhancing access for everyone whether they’re walking, cycling, using a wheelchair or pushing a pram.

“It’s a great step towards sustainable, inclusive travel and a healthier, more connected future for everyone.”

A Valued Community Space

Spen Valley Greenway, a former railway line running between Dewsbury and Oakenshaw, is already a vital asset for the local area. As part of the National Cycle Network and Sustrans’s Paths for Everyone programme, the route is popular with both residents and visitors.

Mike Babbitt, England North Director for Sustrans, highlighted the wider impact of the improvements: “Spen Valley Greenway is a popular section of Sustrans’ National Cycle Network that is well used and loved by the local community and visitors to the area.

The greenway already brings people from across the community together to enjoy fresh air, exercise and green space in a safe, traffic-free environment.

“The new surface, lighting and access points mean more people will be able to use the greenway to access local facilities, public transport and enjoy leisurely trips into town.”

Supporting Active Travel

The scheme also aligns with wider efforts to support active travel and community connectivity across the region. The upgrade is a key part of the A638 Dewsbury–Cleckheaton Sustainable Travel Corridor, which aims to connect residents to jobs, education, training and essential services.

Kim Leadbeater, MP for Spen Valley, welcomed the investment: “The Spen Valley Greenway is such a fantastic asset for us to have locally and I am so pleased to see that it is getting investment from WYCA and Kirklees Council as part of the Government’s £5.7 billion City Region Sustainable Transport programme.

“We should also see greater pedestrian traffic into Cleckheaton to take advantage of what the town centre has to offer.

“Active travel and accessibility are two of my passions and having them come together like this in Spen Valley is very exciting.”

With work due to begin imminently, residents are advised to plan ahead and follow diversion signs.

Once completed, the upgraded Greenway promises to deliver long-lasting benefits for the Spen Valley community and beyond.