New bridge puts cyclists on the right path

A new bridge to link the Trans Pennine Trail with Temple Newsam was officially opened this week.

The new Skelton Bridge crosses the River Aire near to Skelton Lake and provides a walking and cycling route across the Lower Aire Valley, as well as linking to the Trans Pennine Trail cycle route into the city centre, it will also open up future access to Rothwell Country Park for people on foot and bike.

Councillor Richard Lewis and Rosslyn Colderley from Sustrans formally opened the new Skelton Bridge, alongside members of the local community and cyclists.

Leeds City Council has invested in the region of £500K to create the new 23 metre bridge plus adjoining cycle paths, providing a much needed crossing of the River Aire and opening up the Wyke Beck Way all of the way from Roundhay as far south as Rothwell Country Park.

Registered cycling charity Sustrans was responsible for the design and installation of the ‘Warren Truss’ foot/ cycle bridge and will provide ongoing maintenance of the bridge for 40 years.

Councillor Richard Lewis, executive member for regeneration, transport and planning said:

“This much awaited bridge provides a missing link in the cycle network on the east side of Leeds, extending the existing Wykebeck Way and part of the City’s Core Cycle Network. Improving access for cyclists is a key priority for the council and this new bridge at Skelton Lake will mean cyclists and walkers on the Trans Pennine trail can now cross the River Aire and will eventually link new residential and commercial developments in the area with the rest of the city.”

Rosslyn Colderley, England Director North at Sustrans, said:

“We’re really delighted to open Skelton Bridge. It provides a missing link over the river with great potential for the development of cycling and walking routes into the city centre, connecting homes, workplaces and leisure destinations.”

Notes to editor:

About Sustrans

Sustrans is the charity making it easier for people to walk and cycle - connecting people and places, creating liveable neighbourhoods, transforming the school run and delivering a happier, healthier commute.

Sustrans provides free information for schools, parents, pupils, councils and anybody else interested in school travel initiatives and is the pioneer and guardian of the National Cycle Network - a series of safe, traffic-free paths and quiet on-road cycling and walking routes that connect to every major town and city. For more information visit: www.sustrans.org.uk

Sustrans is a registered charity no. 326550 (England and Wales) SCO39263 (Scotland).

For more information about the Trans Pennine Trail visit: http://www.transpenninetrail.org.uk/