Work begins on £1.1m town centre improvement plan

The first phase of building works in a £1.1m plan to improve Morley town centre is due to begin on Friday.

The six-month project includes new seating and planting, better accessibility and other elements to boost footfall in the south Leeds market town.

The government-funded Morley Town Deal, backed by Leeds City Council, will initially be improving the pedestrianised area of Queen Street and nearby Commercial Street.

James Lewis, leader of the city council, said the start of the work, after years of planning and public consultation, would create "an improved town centre experience for all"

Town bosses have stressed that Morley centre will remain open for business throughout the works and shops, pubs, cafes, restaurants and other businesses will continue trading over Christmas and the new year.

Gerald Jennings, chair of the Morley Town Deal, said the project had set out with an "aspiration" to create education and career opportunities, improve the town centre experience and build economic growth.

Leeds City Council has confirmed preparation work starts on Friday, November 6 with full works commencing on Monday, November 9.

The authority said the timeline to deliver the scheme had been "carefully phased to minimise disruption", and there would be clear signage and regular communications on progress.

"This work is only the start of the planned improvements for the town, with three further schemes along Station Road, Queen Street North and Town Square scheduled to be delivered over the next six months," the council leader added.

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