Otley Bridge temporary footway opens

On Tuesday (27 May) the Otley temporary footbridge will be open to the public. This marks a major project milestone, as works can now start on the replacement of the main footway.

The next phase of works sees Otley Bridge closed over two nights between 27-29 May, from 8pm to 5am to enable the installation of concrete barriers and white lining works. (A third night 29 May is a contingency closure subject to the weather). A signed road diversion route will be in place for the duration of the closures, with pedestrians able to use the new temporary footbridge.

For two weeks from Friday 30 May 8pm to 5am, two-way traffic lights will be in place at Otley Bridge. This is for the installation of the catenary system which will hold telecoms cables in place during main footway works. While some disturbance and inconvenience are inevitable, the council will do its best to minimise disruption.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said:

“From Tuesday we’re able to open the temporary footbridge and I am delighted to see good progress is being made. This continues to be a complex and challenging project, so achieving this milestone to maintain pedestrian access across the river, marks significant success so far.

“This vital work will always involve some disruption and we will continue our best efforts to minimise any of this as much as possible. However, I know that it will still be inconvenient for people, and I would like to thank everyone for their understanding and patience so far whilst we do this urgent work.

“We will also continue to keep residents regularly updated as the works progress and work closely with our contractor, with an expected completion of the new Otley footbridge in the autumn.”