Temporary footbridge opens to keep town connected

A temporary footbridge across the River Wharfe will open later while repairs continue on the main crossing.

The bridge, in Otley, has been built to allow for work to be carried out on the pedestrian footway on the neighbouring permanent bridge, which dates back to the 14th Century.

The temporary structure links Wharfemeadows Park on one side of the river to Tittybottle Park on the other.

Leeds City Council thanked residents for their "understanding and patience" while the work is completed.

The permanent bridge is due to be closed until the end of Thursday to allow for the installation of concrete barriers and the painting of lines on the road.

Upon reopening on Friday, a two-way traffic lights system will be in place for two weeks, the council said.

The council's deputy leader, Jonathan Pryor, said: "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."

In February, the council felled a large oak tree in Tittybottle Park after insisting the temporary footbridge could not be built otherwise.

Protesters who wanted to save the tree had previously forced the felling to be postponed.

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