Leicester Transport Improvements
Imagine a city where buses run on time, cyclists feel safe and short walks replace long drives. Leicester transport improvements are reshaping how people move around the city.
With targeted crossings, smarter junctions and new cycling routes, travel becomes faster and fairer for everyone.
These upgrades matter because they cut congestion and boost local businesses. They also improve air quality, which supports public health and long-term economic growth. Moreover, better crossings and bollards protect pedestrians and create safer shopping streets. As a result, commuting times shrink, public transport becomes more reliable and active travel replaces short car trips.
For daily commuters, that means shorter journeys, clearer signage and safer crossings at busy times. Community input guides many projects, so residents see benefits close to home.
Taken together, these measures make Leicester more attractive to investment, students and visitors while helping the city grow sustainably. Join the conversation to shape these plans.
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Leicester transport improvements: easing congestion and boosting urban mobility
Leicester transport improvements target delays and make journeys more reliable. As a result, commuters spend less time in traffic. Moreover, better junctions and crossings reduce peak congestion. Therefore, buses run smoother and cycling feels safer.
Key benefits at a glance
- Reduced congestion on main routes because lane changes and junction tweaks separate traffic flows.
- Faster public transit due to clearer turning lanes and reduced queuing at junctions.
- Safer streets for pedestrians through new zebra crossings and automatic bollards.
- Increased active travel as cycling infrastructure and walking routes expand under the LCWIP draft.
- Better access for mobility aids, making routes inclusive for all residents.
Leicester transport improvements and sustainable transport
These upgrades also support sustainable transport and greener urban mobility. For example, new cycle routes and walking corridors encourage short trips on foot or by bike. In addition, public transit upgrades link with national priorities set by the Department for Transport at Department for Transport. Local businesses will benefit too, because improved loading and flow aid deliveries. See how logistics evolve in this piece the present & future impact of forklifts within the supply chain. Finally, transport history shows long term gains; read more at a complete history of forklift trucks.
| Project | Key features | Benefits | Current status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evington crossing | New zebra crossing; installation cost approx £58,000; one-way road closure Wakerley Road to Headland Road; signposted diversions | Safer pedestrian crossings; reduced wait times; better access to local shops | Starts Monday 3 November 2025; around two weeks; traffic diverted |
| Granby Street bollards | Automatic bollards at pedestrianised section; bollards lower 5am-11am Sun-Fri and 5am-9am Sat; pedestrian access maintained during works | Helps clamp down on illegal parking; safer shopping and leisure area; clearer loading rules | Work starts Monday 27 October 2025; up to two weeks; vehicle access restricted during works |
| LCWIP draft | 26 primary cycle routes; 74 walking routes; mobility aids considered; public consultation via online survey | Expands safe cycling and walking; encourages sustainable transport; improves inclusive access | Draft published 20 August 2025; consultation open until Wednesday 17 September 2025 |
| Duns Lane improvements phase 2 | One-way traffic from Braunstone Gate to St Augustine Road; funded by Connecting Leicester and Transforming Cities Fund; budget about £600,000 | Improves walking, wheeling and cycling links; reduces local congestion; supports nearby developments | Starts Sunday 7 September 2025; up to three months; five-week break planned for adjacent office work |
| Mansfield and Abbey Street junction | Adds second left-turn lane on Mansfield Street; separates turning traffic; temporary closures and diversions planned | Reduces queuing; smoother bus and car flow; quicker junction movement | Work starts 19 October 2025; about a month to complete; access maintained for homes and businesses |
Evidence and community impact
Leicester transport improvements have delivered measurable community benefits. For example, council statements show projects respond to local concerns and improve daily life. As the council says, “This is part of an ongoing programme of work in neighbourhoods across the city, where people have raised concerns, input ideas or highlighted possible areas for improvement. By working with local communities in this way, we are able to invest in highways schemes that make a real difference to the daily lives of residents.” By working with residents, schemes reduce danger spots and create safer shopping streets.
National surveys support local findings. Transport Focus reported overall bus passenger satisfaction at 83% in 2024, with punctuality and journey time satisfaction rising. Source: Transport Focus. Moreover, the LCWIP consultation demonstrates local appetite for walking and cycling improvements. See the council consultation: Leicester Council Consultation.
Green initiatives are integral to plans. For instance, the LCWIP proposes 26 primary cycle routes and 74 walking routes. In addition, Duns Lane work is partly funded by the Transforming Cities Fund, which supports low carbon travel. Together, these steps improve air quality and commuter wellbeing, and they build trust through public engagement. Residents report quieter streets and easier daily journeys during peak hours.
Conclusion
Leicester transport improvements are already delivering long term gains for residents and businesses. For example, safer crossings and smarter junctions reduce delays and lower collision risks. Moreover, new cycling routes and walking corridors promote sustainable travel and cleaner air. As a result, local streets feel safer and more welcoming.
Local authorities and partners have focused on projects that support everyday trips. In addition, the schemes help shops and services by improving access for deliveries and customers. The improvements also support inclusive travel, with routes designed for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Together, these steps make Leicester more attractive to workers, students and visitors.
For material handling needs, Angus Lift Trucks offers practical support across the city. They provide forklift hire, sales, maintenance and operator training, backed by 35 years of industry experience. Therefore, businesses can rely on fast service and skilled technicians to keep operations moving. Angus Lift Trucks commits to quality, safety and tailored solutions for warehouses and shops. Learn more at Angus Lift Trucks.
Ultimately, these combined efforts create a city that moves better. By investing in people friendly transport and strong local services, Leicester secures healthier growth and a more resilient economy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the main Leicester transport improvements happening now?
Leicester City Council is delivering crossings, bollards, junction upgrades and LCWIP cycling routes. Works include Evington crossing and Granby Street bollards. These projects target safety, congestion and active travel.
How will these works affect local businesses and deliveries?
Short term, works may cause diversions and restricted vehicle access. However, project teams schedule flexible loading windows and maintain access. Council teams coordinate with businesses to reduce impact. As a result, businesses should see improved deliveries and customer access after completion.
Will commuters face long delays during construction?
Some temporary delays will occur, but contractors use phased work and signposted diversions. Therefore, peak disruption should be limited. Bus services will run where possible and timetables may adjust. Check council traffic notices and bus operator alerts before travel.
How can residents give feedback or learn more?
The LCWIP consultation is open online and the council publishes updates. For example, residents can complete surveys and join local meetings. Updates appear on Leicester City Council news pages.
Do the improvements support greener travel?
Yes. The plans add cycle lanes and walking routes, and fund low carbon measures through Transforming Cities Fund. Green schemes link to national priorities from the Department for Transport. Consequently, expect cleaner air and healthier travel choices.
