Harrogate Borough Council

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29 August 2008 -    KNARESBOROUGH, once famous for its 19^th century shoemaking industry, is to celebrate the reopening of the popular Horseshoe Field's bridge.  A new bridge replaces the rotting timber original that was also over 100 years old.

 

This £80,000 project means that people can again enjoy the tranquil surroundings of this charming area alongside the River Nidd for a stroll or a picnic. 

 

Structural surveys carried out by Harrogate Borough Council eventually led to the bridge being weight restricted because a number of the main timber beams were rotting and splitting.  Further concern surrounded the bridge piers that were straining under the weight of trees and debris that had washed down the river and built up over a considerable time.

 

The use of high quality 'hardwood' means the bridge has not only been restored to its original splendour, but it is now probably stronger than it ever was during its previous 100-year history.

 

Councillor Andrew Jones, Cabinet Member for Resources, at Harrogate Borough Council, says that this has been a real team effort.  "A call to the Environment Agency got the ball rolling when they worked under the direction of our own senior building surveyor to clear the area around the bridge. 

 

"Then we had to find the funding to replace the timbers.  This council increased its offer to £45,000 as Knaresborough Town Council increased its share to £25,000 and Yorkshire Forward came in with the remaining £10,000 from its Rural Target Fund under the Renaissance Market Town Programme.  Coupled with work to check the stone piers and abutments, the bridge really is brand new.  Using the Forest Stewardship Council's certified green heart timber means that the bridge has a longer lifespan and will cut down on the level of maintenance required in future years.  This is a popular route for both locals and visitors and I am delighted that it will be there for many more to enjoy in the future."

The contractor was Moor & Valley Limited of Blazefield, Pateley Bridge.

 

 

Note to Editors:  £10,000 contribution made by Yorkshire Forward through the Renaissance Market Town Programme - Rural Target Fund, and the assistance given by North Yorkshire County Council and the Renaissance Market Town Programme - Rural Target Fund Partnership.

 

FURTHER INFORMATION: Councillor Andrew Jones is available for comment on 01423 526165.  Further technical information is available from Mr James Walton, the council's Senior Building Surveyor, 01423 556661.