New images show how Hull's Freetown Way will look with two lanes as views sought

New images have been released showing how Hull's Freetown Way will look when it reverts back to two lanes in both directions, with views sought on the design.

The latest design would also see footpaths widened between Blundell's Corner for segregated cycle lanes and remodelled junctions, with works starting in spring 2025. The new cycle optimised protected signals (CYCLOPS) junctions would be Hull's first and installed at the junctions with Beverley Road, Wright Street, Charles Street, Caroline Street and George Street.

Hull City Council Transport Portfolio Holder Cllr Mark Ieronimo said the new designs being consulted on would help traffic flow better and tackle congestion more broadly. The public consultation which began on Monday (May 20) follows an initial round on engagement to seek views on the plans in June.

READ MORE:

• Hull's six most congested roads and how long it takes to drive down them

• All the Hull roadworks and closures scheduled in May and June

A more simplified design of Freetown Way's junction with Spring Bank, Beverley Road and Ferensway was one of the results. The decision to revert Freetown Way back to two lanes was taken in 2021 after cycle lanes were first installed as part of a Government active travel push in 2020.

The CYCLOPS junctions being installed aim to reduce accidents by separating different road users. The junction's outer rings are cycle lanes which act like a roundabout and have signal crossings designed to create a safer route for cyclists.

The inner rings are for pedestrian use and signals for them and cyclists turn green at the same time while drivers have to stop. Pedestrians should have to go through fewer stages to get where they want to go and have more space to wait at crossings.

Cyclists will also have a protected right turn on the junction on a gentle radius and they can filter left without signal control. The council stated that the new layout would not negatively affect journey times for any group of road users.

The Freetown Way scheme has been backed by Government Active Travel funding. Cllr Ieronimo said the Freetown Way scheme and one on Preston Road would help tackle traffic issues while also promoting walking and cycling.

The portfolio holder said: "The updated designs for the new cycling infrastructure on Freetown Way are exciting and should help traffic flow better. We are now keen to hear what people have to say about the scheme before we finalise documentation for tender.

"Residents want us to provide the facilities needed to support greater choice when it comes to travel options. We’re going to do our best to deliver that."

The consultation on the designs for the scheme runs until Sunday, June 30 and people can take part here.

Drop-in events are also being held at the following locations:

• Hull History Centre – Tuesday, June 4 – 10am-4pm

• Trinity Market – Tuesday, June 11 – 10am-3pm

• Hull College – Thursday, June 13 – 11am-4pm

• St Stephens Shopping Centre – Thursday, June 27 – 11am-7pm