North Yorkshire County Council has completed renovation and improvement work ahead of schedule on the bridge carrying the B6265, and the adjacent footbridge, through the centre of Pateley Bridge.
The road was closed last night and due to be closed tonight so that the footbridge could be removed, but the bridge is now open ahead of schedule and signed diversions have been taken down.
The timber beams of the three span bridge are in varying degrees of decay and are in need of extensive repairs. During the estimated ten weeks during which the work will be carried out, the footbridge will be closed. However, the road bridge will remain open to vehicles and pedestrians.
In addition to the repairs to the beams, new timber hand railings will be provided along the full length of the bridge. A new anti-slip surface will be provided.
Similar night-time closures will be required to allow the delivery and re-installation of the refurbished footbridge units. This is expected to take place on March 12/13.
A diversion route will be signed during the closure periods, diverting traffic via Summerbridge, Menwith Hill and Greenhow.
During the remainder of the works the B6265 over the river bridge will be open to traffic as normal. Pedestrians will need to use the existing footway over the road bridge. Access to properties adjacent to the bridge will not be affected.
