WORK on the installation of signs and traffic calming for a town's 20mph zone will start on Monday. 

Bradford Council is pressing ahead with the plan for a town-wide 20mph zone in Ilkley despite contentious debate about the issue.

Councillors have been informed that work on the zone is due to begin on February 12. 

Simon D'Vali, Bradford Highways' principal engineer, said in an email on Tuesday: "The traffic calming installation and 20mph roundel sign erection will take place next week, commencing the 12th February."

He said it would take around four weeks, depending on the weather. 

The scheme was met with a large number of objections from Ilkley residents and led to the formation of the Ilkley Road Safety Action Group.

The non-political group, formed by residents, forced a parish poll which resulted in a resounding no to the scheme. However, the results were non-binding.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “I am pleased to see we are in the final stages of delivery of this high-quality scheme.

"20mph zones are proven to work in reducing both the number and severity of collisions, improving road safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

"The installation of this scheme will improve conditions for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users.

"It is important to note that the amount of traffic calming being installed is half the amount originally proposed, which we amended based on feedback through the consultation process.

"We have already delivered similar schemes elsewhere in the district and we’re confident that this is an appropriate scheme for Ilkley and will deliver lasting benefits for all highway users.”