Solution to Bridgewater Place wind chaos comes closer
THE eight-year battle to solve the wind problems at Bridgewater Place in Leeds that caused the death of a man of 2011 could be reaching a conclusion with city councillors set to approve an agreement that will see major work begin at the site.
Leeds City Council’s executive board will be asked to approve the development agreement that includes giving permission for a series of “baffles” to be installed over the highway.
Dr Edward Slaney was killed five years ago when a lorry blew over onto him during high winds . At a subsequent inquest it was recommended the key junction should be closed when wind speeds exceeded 45mph.
Cllr Richard Lewis, Leeds City Council’s executive member for regeneration, transport and planning, said: “We have been pushing hard for a very long time to ensure that the dangers caused to the public by Bridgewater Place are dealt with as fully as possible and to the very highest of safety standards.
“This has not happened as fast as we would have liked as there were many complex technical, legal and other considerations to be worked through.”
The building owners CPPI will pay all of the costs of the work, and an annual fee of £24,500 for 20 years for highway costs, as well as lodging a bond of £672,000 with the city council.
Councillors will discuss the plans on February 10 and if the development agreement is approved, the construction programme could start next month and take 50 weeks.
The work will require the extended road closure of Water Lane at intervals throughout the duration of the works.
