PLANS for a major highways scheme to improve traffic between Shipley and Bradford could include wildlife spots and pathways for walkers to enjoy.

The £42 million scheme is currently in the consultation stage, but it will include the widening of the Canal Road Corridor, creating new cycle and bus routes, making rail stations in Shipley, Frizinghall and Bradford more accessible, and improving a number of major junctions, including Fox Corner in Shipley.

As part of the proposals, the project has a number of 'green' elements to it.

They include seeking to encourage transport such as cycling and walking, and enhance public transport.

However, Bradford Council says the works could include improving green spaces along the route, providing pockets of wildlife areas and pleasant walking paths.

The scheme will also support jobs, businesses and housing development in the immediate areas and wider district.

The local authority is gathering the views of residents to find out what they would like to get from the changes.

Cllr Kim Groves, Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority Transport Committee said: “Like other schemes funded through our West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund programme is designed to reduce congestion and make public transport more reliable, which in turn supports economic growth from which everyone can benefit.

“We want to make sure we have people’s views to ensure we achieve the maximum value for our investment through this scheme which is why I’m keen to get people’s views.

”I hope local residents and business as well as people who travel through the area will come along to these drop-in events. However if they can’t make the dates and times, I would urge them to have their say though our engagement hub, at www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk before the Friday 8 February closing date. ”

Four drop-in sessions will run between this coming Monday until Saturday, February 2 at a range of venues including Bradford City Hall, Bradford Interchange Train Station, Tesco Supermarket on Valley Road and Shipley Library.

Officers will be on hand to explain the scheme, answer questions and record people’s ideas, views and opinions.

The Bradford Shipley Route Improvement Scheme covers sections of the A650 Manningham Lane / Keighley Road / Bradford Road, the A6037 Canal Road / Valley Road and A6038 Otley Road.

The Bradford Shipley Route Improvement Scheme aims to reduce congestion and journey times and is expected to be completed by 2024.