Otley Bridge Footway Reopens After Major Upgrade

Extensive works restore key pedestrian route in Otley

The footway on Otley Bridge has reopened to the public following a significant demolition and reconstruction project. The upgrade was necessary after safety concerns were raised about the condition of the existing footway in July 2023.

Background and timeline of works

Leeds City Council received reports of defects on the Otley Bridge footway in mid-2023. Subsequent investigations identified the need for a complete replacement of the cantilever footway for safety reasons.

Construction began in March 2025 with the installation of a temporary footway, which opened in May to maintain pedestrian access during the works. The original footway was then demolished and replaced with a new structure.

Project details and engineering considerations

• The new footway spans 79 metres and has been designed to last approximately 120 years.
• Specialist contractor Balfour Beatty carried out the construction work.
• To minimise disruption, lane and road closures were scheduled during less busy periods, avoiding full weekend closures of the bridge.
• Extensive planning was undertaken to avoid environmental harm, including ecological, aquatic, bat, and arboricultural surveys.
• The project involved close coordination with the Environment Agency and English Heritage.

Next steps and park restoration

The final phase of the project includes the removal of the temporary footway and the reinstatement of nearby riverside parks affected by the works. Tittybottle Park and a section of Wharfemeadows Park north of the river will be restored.

Restoration efforts will include planting 13 replacement trees and replanting two mature oak trees that were temporarily relocated to a tree nursery. The removal of the temporary footbridge is scheduled to be completed before Christmas 2025, with the parks and Garnett’s Field expected to reopen for public use early next year.

Official comments

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said the reopening marked the conclusion of a complex and challenging project to restore an important community link. He also thanked the public for their patience and the project team for their work under difficult conditions.