June update - Otley Bridge footway

Existing footway demolition works

After last month’s temporary footbridge opening to the public, we want to thank everyone in the community for adapting to this change. Demolition work can now safely take place on the existing cantilevered footway on Otley Bridge.

The recent night-time closures of Otley Bridge were carried out to install essential traffic management measures that will support the remaining works. Temporary traffic lights have also been in operation during night shifts to set up temporary works for the demolition phase.

A large crane will arrive on site again this weekend, in readiness to start lifting out bridge beams later next week. The removal of the last span on the north side will require a night-time closure of Otley Bridge of 1-2 nights. The dates for the night closure, on a Saturday or Sunday in July,  will depend on demolition progress and will be confirmed in due course.

We appreciate your continued patience and cooperation while this essential project progresses.

Working with the community

The project team with partners Balfour Beatty are undertaking a variety of social impact initiatives to engage and support the local community. Key activities include STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) workshops in local schools, where engineers can share their personal insights into civil engineering and provide an overview of the project. The first event took place at St Joseph Catholic Primary School.

More initiatives are scheduled for the summer and autumn, including further STEM workshops, mock interviews, and career development sessions. These engagements will help provide young people with direct exposure to professionals on the project, inspiring them and fostering interest in real world career pathways.

The oak tree trunk

Plans are in place to transform the remaining trunk of oak into something meaningful for the community. Children at a local primary school will take part in a competition to design a bench, using the wood from the oak tree.

The designs will be judged by Cllr Paul Carter, Mayor of Otley. The winning design will be crafted into a bench for Tittybottle park and carved by local artist Shane Green.

Thank you for collecting your love locks

Thank you to everyone who has already collected their love lock from the railing. For those who still wish to collect theirs, please do so by 30 June 2025. To arrange collection, contact ConnectingLeeds@leeds.gov.uk. After this date, any remaining locks will be recycled.