Latest news

Today, the Connect2 scheme to enable walkers, riders and cyclists to travel via a pleasant level route from Harrogate over the Nidd Viaduct and onto Ripley without needing to negotiate the fast and busy A61, is a step closer as sustainable transport charity Sustrans and its Connect2 partners at North Yorkshire County Council have signed the paperwork that will guide the development for the coming years.

This agreement, a Memorandum of Understanding, confirms partners’ continued commitment to the project and pledges £400,000 from Sustrans’ Connect2 lottery award to create the new route across the river valley providing an enjoyable route for people pushing prams, wheelchair users, cyclists, walkers and horse riders to travel to Ripley and its splendid castle, out into the Dales and other favourite destinations including Nidderdale and Fountains Abbey.

Over the next two to three years, Sustrans and North Yorkshire County Council, together with Harrogate Borough Council, and community groups will work together to complete the scheme. Now the agreement between partners has been signed, the project will progress through planning, design and construction stages over the next two years. It is anticipated that work will begin on the ground in 2010 and take six months.

Sustrans’ Regional Director, David Hall said: “We are delighted to sign this agreement with North Yorkshire County Council. Once open, the new traffic-free path will give walkers, cyclists and horse riders scenic views from the Grade 2 listed Nidd Viaduct and literally bridge the gap into the Dales and beyond."

County Councillor Clare Wood North Yorkshire’s executive member for public rights of way said: “North Yorkshire County Council is pleased to be a partner in this scheme by undertaking to maintain this bridleway over the Nidd Viaduct for future generations to enjoy – a safe and scenic route to enable families, residents and visitors to benefit from our wonderful Yorkshire countryside."

Published on 09th Apr 2009