PLANS for a new bus lane on one of Huddersfield’s busiest roads have been approved despite concerns from residents.

But Kirklees Council will plant 20 trees to replace the 10 it says will be lost as a result of the work on Leeds Road.

The scheme, designed to cut congestion, could eventually see a bus lane stretch about two miles, from Red Doles Lane to Oak Road, Bradley.

The Cabinet yesterday approved the first part of the project, a £1.2 programme which will see a bus lane and pelican crossing between Deighton Road and Oak Road.

Nearly 70 people signed a petition against the proposals.

They feared it would lead to the loss of green space and affect a nursery roost of bats.

But a report to the Cabinet said there was no evidence of a bat colony in the area.

It said the planting of 20 mature trees would mitigate the loss of others.

Clr Peter McBride, Cabinet member for transport, said: “In order to persuade people to dump their cars, there has to be a fast, punctual alternative – something which is a much better experience.”

Work will start in January.