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Mar

Last Updated: 07/03/2024

'No timescale' for Nidd Viaduct footpath repairs

by Lauren Ryan

| 08 Mar, 2024

The current state of the Nidd Viaduct footpath

North Yorkshire Council has said there is no timescale for the reopening of a footpath near Nidd Viaduct.

The council closed the footpath due to 'ongoing land movement' about two weeks ago. The six-month closure order states that "no pedestrian shall proceed along" the route until August 18.

However, it is unclear how long the work will take.

It affects the public right of way approaching the viaduct from the Bilton side of the River Nidd.

The path is part of the Nidderdale Ringway, which is a popular woodland hiking route alongside the river.

Paul Thompson, the council’s assistant director for transport, said:

“In the interest of public safety, a section of the public footpath at Nidd Viaduct has been closed due to signs of movement in the land and trees to the side of the path. We are investigating the site but at this stage there is no timescale for the repairs.”

The council has provided an alternative route. The area surrounding the footpath is open to the public and there are many unofficial routes and paths available.

Cllr Paul Haslam, a Conservative who represents Bilton and Nidd Gorge on the council, said:

"I have been monitoring the situation and visit regularly to check on the damage to the path and surroundings. I have spoken to railway pathways who are responsible for the maintenance of the viaduct.

"I will be seeing them later this week to see if there is anything that needs to be done to protect that structure. Rest assured I am asking questions to make sure that all users are kept safe."

Yesterday on social media he added:

"I spent yesterday morning scrambling round the viaduct with a project engineer to review any potential threat or damage to the viaduct as a result of the recent land slips. The good news is there is no apparent immediate danger but checks will be carried out in the coming months to safeguard both the viaduct and , of course, local residents who walk in this area."

More permanent signs stating that the footpath is closed are set to be erected soon to encourage people to avoid the area and follow a diversion.

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'No timescale' for Nidd Viaduct footpath repairs

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