MOST of Pool-in-Wharfedale is set to become a 20mph zone within a year.

Leeds City Council is aiming to proceed with plans to design and install a programme of 14, 20mph areas - including Pool village* - across Leeds.

The schemes, which tie in line with Department of Transport guidelines for improving safety, are to be implemented over the 2017-18 financial year at a total cost of £300,000.

Councillor Barry Anderson (Con, Adel & Wharfedale) believes the move will make a real difference in Pool.

He said: "I welcome this as road safety and pedestrian safety are paramount because of the height of the pavements in the area.

"I hope it makes people feel safer when walking and cycling and when crossing the roads.

"It should also aid people when crossing Main Street and Arthington Lane as cars will be able to slow down from 20mph to a stop position more easily for the controlled lights and the zebra crossings.

"This reaffirms the 20mph outside the school as well, which is important, and it will also reduce noise pollution for residents.

"It will also meet the aspirations of the Parish Council and the Neighbourhood Plan Group."

He added: "I hope they get on with it as quickly as possible as past schemes in other areas have taken some time due to the bureaucratic nature of the process."

The city council will consult on its plans with the emergency services and West Yorkshire Combined Authority before holding a wider consultation involving residents and schools.

Nearby Otley already has 20mph zones across most of its residential areas, where signs displaying the lower speed limit are prominent at main entrances.

Councillors there were told that the town's final 20mph zone, for the Ashfield area, would also be put in place over the next financial year.

*The hamlet of Old Pool Bank is not included in the proposals.