Otley replacement footway update September

Steelwork installation gets underway on Otley Bridge replacement footway

From 27 September the steelwork installation begins on the replacement footway at Otley Bridge. This is due take around two to three weeks to complete and marks the start of the final phase of works in replacing the main footway.

This phase of works sees Otley Bridge night closures from 8pm to 530am between 27 September to 18 October, to enable the installation of steel works. A signed diversion route is in place.

These works involve a 450-tonne crane arriving on 27 September, which will lift the steelwork in place from Tittybottle Park. The team then managed to avoid the need for full weekend closures of Otley Bridge as programmed before. Now only two weekends of lane closures are necessary towards the end of October for utility companies to divert services back over the new footway.

Despite recent challenges with high river levels, the reinforcement and recasting of the cantilevers to meet current standards was completed last night. The team discovered during demolition that repairs are needed to the pilasters on Otley Bridge. This is unforeseen and could add approximately three weeks to the programme. These structural improvements are essential to ensure the long-term safety and durability of the new footway.

Whilst some disturbance and inconvenience is 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:

“For around two to three weeks from 27 September, the works will start on steelwork installation for the replacement footway. Lifting the steel components into place, is like fitting the final jigsaw pieces together and when complete will show the full extent of the new footway. After this, repairs will then take place to the pilasters on Otley Bridge. The project is making major progress despite some complex, challenging conditions and stormy weather, as we get closer to completing.

“Despite some disruption we will continue our best efforts to minimise 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, as we carry out this final installation.

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

School playground and footpaths transformed

During the school summer holidays volunteers from Balfour Beatty’s Otley footbridge project team and Tarmac, carried out a transformative project at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School. 

One of the school’s playgrounds had begun to deteriorate around the edges, crumbling away due to prolonged exposure to weather and wear over time. The path beside the school was too narrow for parents with double buggies or those walking together with children.

The group of volunteers used their skills and experience to remove the crumbling kerbing around the playground. The damaged surface was carefully trimmed back to leave neat, safe edges. It then was finished off with new path edgings, concrete, topsoil, and stone, all donated by the Otley footbridge scheme, ensuring pupils can play safely without the risk of slips and trips. 

They also widened the narrow footpath to allow safer access for families, especially during the wet months when the surrounding area gets muddy and difficult to navigate. Tarmac not only volunteered their time but also generously donated the surfacing material.

Pupils can now enjoy a playground with fewer trip hazards, and benefit parents from a wider, more accessible path that makes school drop-offs and pick-ups easier and safer.

Thank you to all the volunteers from both Balfour Beatty and Tarmac who took part in this project.