A629 Calder and Hebble Junction (Phase 1b)

We are getting a number of queries about the work taking place on the A629 at Salterhebble, so have created a Frequently Asked Question section to help answer these queries... A629 Phase 1b FAQs

Plans

Details of the proposals can be found on the drawings in the supporting documents and in summary include:

• Building a new bridge and link road between the A629 and Stainland Road by spanning the Calder and Hebble Navigation.
• Widening the A629 to two continuous lanes in each direction from Elland Wood Bottom to the completed work at Salterhebble Hill.
• Introduction of traffic signal control at the junction of the A629 and Jubilee Road.
• Converting the existing mini roundabout on Stainland Road to traffic signal control.
• Creating a new landscaped area and surface water storage ponds adjacent to Stainland Road and new access points to canal towpath. 

Benefits

Economy and Employment

The project will improve access to Copley, Sowerby Bridge and Halifax, making sites on the route more attractive for business investment. The improvement in transport accessibility and better journey times will attract more workers to the area. 

Journey times

Once complete, the project will reduce vehicle journey times from Huddersfield to Halifax by up to 30%. Travel choices will be improved with more reliable and quicker bus journeys.

Tackling ‘rat running’

The new efficient A629 will reduce ‘rat running’ through adjacent communities such as Elland, West Vale, Siddal, Exley, Copley and Skircoat.

Sustainability

Travel options will benefit from more reliable and quicker local bus journeys and the promotion of active travel by improving cycle and walking infrastructure.

Progress

Overall completion of the scheme is planned for spring 2023

March 2022

The former Punchbowl pub was demolished as part of the ongoing work to widen the carriageway. See our short clip of the demolition in progress

January 2022

Work was undertaken to install the pilings ready to allow the bridge construction to start later in the year. Work is ongoing to create space alongside the A629 to allow the carriageway to be widened.

November 2021

John Sisk & Son begin main construction on and along the A629 in Salterhebble

Early 2021

Initial site clearance undertaken was completed by April, including clearing vegetation along Stainland Road and Huddersfield Road. Key consideration was given to conservation throughout this process. Site clearance allowed access for further technical surveys and inspections which have fed back into the design process 

2020

Tendering process undertaken which lead to the appointment of John Sisk & Son as contractors on the scheme. They will be supported by WSP to deliver the final designs

May 2019

Planning permission was granted

Autumn 2018

Public engagement took place in early autumn which informed the proposals that will be submitted for planning permission in late 2018