Your Skipton Radio

4:00pm - 8:00am

Email the studio

Dodgy

Staying Out For The Summer

Listen Live Podcasts

Feasibility study to look at replacing or rebuilding Skipton bridge

Friday, 9 January 2026 07:08

By Joe Willis, Local Democracy Reporter

Horse Close Bridge. (Photo: Google)

A feasibility study is being planned on whether to replace or rebuild a narrow bridge to improve access to potential new housing sites.

North Yorkshire Council has sought funding from Homes England for a review of Horse Close Bridge, in Cawder Lane, Skipton.

The study would assess whether it was better to upgrade the bridge, which crosses the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, or build a new bridge nearby.

The Craven Local Plan requires improvements to the crossing if housing is to be built on nearby land.

Two sites which could provide around 190 new homes have already been identified.

One of the sites is owned by the unitary authority.

The council has agreed to accept a £21,000 grant for the study from Homes England.

Hugh Smith, the council’s delivery and infrastructure officer for planning, said in a report to members:

“The local plan identifies a requirement to improve or replace Horse Close Bridge over Cawder Lane as part of the planning approval process.

“The bridge which provides vehicular access over the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is narrow, without a footway for pedestrians.

“This represents the main barrier to these sites coming forward. This level of infrastructure represents a significant financial ask of each scheme, the extent of which needs to be further understood.”

Mr Smith said recent discussions had taken place between the council and the adjacent landowner to understand the appetite for delivering the housing.

The report says the existing stone bridge is of historic character, but is not listed.

More from Local news

Skipton Live Reveals 42-Act Line-up for First Ever Music Festival

Skipton Live has unveiled the full line-up for its inaugural music festival, with 42 acts set to perform across the August Bank Holiday weekend.
Children to travel free on buses across North Yorkshire throughout August

Families in Skipton and across North Yorkshire can enjoy cheaper days out this summer as children are set to travel free on most local bus services throughout August.
Skipton Bakery launches affordable family craft club for summer holidays

A popular Skipton bakery is launching a new family activity aimed at keeping children entertained during the school summer holidays.
The Principle Trust receives £5,000 donation from The Fence Club

The Skipton-based children's charity has received a £5,000 donation that will help provide respite breaks for families caring for children with serious illnesses.
Settle Victoria Hall Beer Festival returns for 2026

The beer festival will be raising funds for The Principle Trust Children’s Charity
WATCH: Jason Manford gives 'honest' review of Leeds Bradford Airport

Comedian Jason Manford has given his 'honest' verdict on Leeds Bradford Airport - praising its staff but joking that the terminal could do with a refresh.
Councillor's charity head-shave fundraising appeal passes £10,000

A fundraising appeal by North Yorkshire councillor Arnold Warneken has passed the £10,000 mark ahead of his charity beard shave at this weekend’s Tockwith Show.
Independent bookshop in Skipton set for new chapter as ownership changes

An independent bookshop in Skipton is preparing to begin a new chapter as it changes ownership this weekend.
Bereavement group appeals for venue donation to expand support to Skipton

A community bereavement support group that has helped hundreds of people across Harrogate is hoping to expand into Skipton.
Silsden Community Centre launches fundraising appeal to unlock £10,000 for community project

The Hive is appealing for support from the local community after launching a fundraising campaign that could unlock £10,000 towards a new activity and youth space.
New road signs warn of wildfire risk across North Yorkshire

New roadside warning signs are being installed across North Yorkshire to remind people of the dangers of lighting campfires and disposable barbecues in the countryside.
Skipton MP meets with Bizzie Lizzie's to discuss challenges facing hospitality businesses

Skipton and Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith has visited Bizzie Lizzie's in Skipton to hear about the challenges currently facing businesses in the hospitality sector.
Police appeal after more than £200 worth of goods stolen from Skipton store

North Yorkshire Police are appealing for information following a shop theft at The Range in Skipton.
Calls grow for progress on Skipton-Colne rail line reopening

Fresh calls have been made for the reopening of the Skipton-Colne railway line, with a senior Bradford councillor describing the project as a potential boost for transport, education and the local economy.
Skipton prepares for Yorkshire Day celebrations this weekend

Skipton is getting ready to celebrate Yorkshire Day this weekend, with a packed programme of free entertainment, family activities and community events taking place across the town.
Channel 4 star added to lineup for Skipton Pride

Skipton Pride have announced a guest speaker to be added to their line-up.
Craven Lawn Tennis Club celebrates President's Day champions in Gargrave

Craven Lawn Tennis Club in Gargrave has crowned its President's Day champions following a closely contested annual competition.
Upcoming rail engineering work to shut lines between Bradford and Shipley for three days

Rail engineering work between Bradford Forster Square and Shipley will close all lines between the two from Saturday, 1st August 2026, for three days.
Skipton MP opposes plans for 1,250-person asylum centre

Skipton MP Sir Julian Smith has joined fellow MPs in opposing Government plans to accommodate up to 1,250 asylum seekers at the former RAF Linton-on-Ouse site.
Hardware store in Silsden raises money for Manorlands Hospice

A simple fundraising idea at a Silsden hardware shop is helping to raise money for Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice while giving old tennis balls a new lease of life.