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Leeds Live
Leeds Live
World
Ben Abbiss & Megan Banner

Crush of cars in Leeds suburb of Headingley forcing people out as residents 'take lives in their hands'

A Headingley man has claimed a surge in car numbers means crossing the road near his home requires people to "take their lives in their hands".

One resident said the "horrendous" traffic makes him want to move away from the popular Leeds suburb.

Discussions at COP26 have highlighted the need for people to walk or cycle more often, especially in communities like Headingley where most amenities - including a park and a cinema - are right on the doorstep.

Click here for more stories about Headingley

Leeds city centre is also within walking distance and a regular bus route runs along Otley Road.

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They said: "I do have a car but use it for long distance. I didn't have one for seven years and I only got one when I set up my own business.

"I agree people do need access to a car but they don't need to own one."

Video footage shows how Headingley's tiny roads struggle with the number of cars using them.

A clip tweeted by @UrbanGIO showed cars having to use the pavements to pass each other, leaving residents worried for their safety.

He added: "It's horrendous trying to cross the road with my nine-month-old daughter. I've also watched my neighbour crossing with kids in a pram and toddler by her side, taking their lives in their hands.

"The growth in the number of cars makes me not want to live here.

"I hope the future makes people realise they don't need a car, and we don't have the space to accommodate them in the urban areas."

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