'TROUBLESOME' chicanes are due to be removed from part of Yeadon.

Residents have been worried for some time the traffic calming obstacles could actually be increasing the chances of an accident, by frustrating drivers who end up stuck behind them.

Now Leeds City Council has announced it will be running a public consultation on plans to replace the chicanes with an alternative traffic calming approach, in the form of speed tables.

The news has been welcomed by ward councillors, who have been calling for a change for nearly two years.

Councillor Sandy Lay (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said: "We’ve all been stuck in Queensway at some point, inching towards the chicanes while waiting for a gap in the oncoming traffic – it’s little wonder that some drivers try to nip through.

"That is dangerous to both other drivers and pedestrians, so the chicanes need to go.

"But Queensway is a busy road surrounded by family homes, and we need to keep pedestrians safe while we improve the traffic flow.

"The introduction of speed tables will keep speeds down, but without all the stopping and starting the chicanes cause. We should all benefit from the better air quality, too, as drivers keep to a steady speed."

Cllr Ryk Downes (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) added: "I promised residents last year we would sort out the problems the chicanes cause without turning Queensway back into the fast, busy road that posed such a danger to them.

"We have been working on this for some time now and I am pleased I can deliver upon my promise.

"This consultation will give residents the chance to confirm this is what they want. We will keep them informed of when and how to take part in the consultation as soon as the details are finalised."

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