£1.1m public realm works planned for Morley

Work is expected to begin on Queen Street and Commercial Street on 9 November, with completion targeted for March 2027.

A £1.1 million scheme to improve public spaces in Morley town centre is due to start after construction company CR Reynolds Ltd was appointed to carry out the work.

The project is part of the Morley Town Deal, which is funded through the Government’s Local Regeneration Funding programme and backed by Leeds City Council. It will focus on the pedestrianised section of Queen Street and Commercial Street.

What the work will involve

Plans include adding seating and planting, improving accessibility and upgrading public spaces. The council says the changes are intended to make the town centre more welcoming and support future investment and increased footfall.

On Commercial Street, the project will include highway works. The council’s leader, Councillor James Lewis, said the planned changes to Queen Street and Commercial Street would have practical benefits for accessibility and safety as well as improving the appearance of the area.

The work has been phased to limit disruption. The council and contractor say they will provide signage and updates on progress, and work with local businesses to reduce the impact where possible.

Businesses to remain open

Morley town centre is expected to remain open during construction. Shops, pubs, cafes, restaurants and other businesses are expected to continue trading, although some temporary disruption is possible.

Gerald Jennings, chair of the Morley Town Deal, urged people to continue using the town centre and supporting local businesses while the work is under way.

The public realm project is one part of a wider programme of improvements planned through the Town Deal. Three further schemes, at Station Road, Queen Street North and Town Square, are scheduled for delivery over the next six months, according to the council.

The wider programme also includes work to rejuvenate Morley Town Hall and plans for a learning and skills centre. The Town Deal’s stated aims include improving the town centre, supporting economic growth and creating education and career opportunities.