COUNCILLORS are demanding action to repair a section of damaged towpath on the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

Keighley town councillors Andrea Walker and Ron Beale say the collapsed ten-metre length by Bar Lane bridge, in Riddlesden, is a danger to walkers and cyclists.

Cllr Walker claims she first complained about damage to the stone section five years ago but no remedial work was carried out.

She said there had been further erosion since then, and the entire length was currently fenced off awaiting repair.

The Canal and River Trust, which oversees the UK’s canals, said it could not afford to repair the towpath immediately.

He said: “All required works are placed in priority order with health and safety- related issues our paramount concern.

“Sadly, there are many areas in greater need of our resources at this time which means that we are not always able to complete other works as quickly as we would like to.

“Notwithstanding the above, our asset teams complete monthly inspections and note any deterioration and required works accordingly.”

Cllr Walker, who lives on Bar Lane and represents Riddlesden and Stockbridge ward on Keighley Town Council, said: “The canal bank is deteriorating. A lot of people have been complaining about it. It’s dangerous and nothing has been done.”