A BRIDGE that had been missing for some time has been rebuilt.

The new crossing point is now in place across Slippery Ford Beck, near Oakworth. 

Footpath Keighley 29, which crosses the beck high on Keighley Moor, forms part of the Bradford Millennium Way and is a popular walking route.

While the bridge had been missing, heavy rainfall over recent years caused further bank erosion.

This meant the crossing of the beck widened, making it increasingly impassable.

Bradford Council’s rights of way officer initiated a project to replace the lost bridge and secured funding.

Due to the location of the bridge, the project had to wait until a period of dry weather made it possible to take vehicles across the adjoining field to access the site.

The six-metre bridge chosen is made of structural steel and is finished in recycled plastic to make it durable, sustainable, and maintenance-free.

The Council’s Countryside Team liaised with the landowner to be able to transport the bridge, tools, and materials to the remote location. Whilst on site, the Countryside Team also replaced the timber gate to improve access.

The donation of £5,226 from Peak and Northern Footpath Society enabled the Council to purchase the bridge, with the Council’s Countryside Team funding and carrying out the work to create the abutments and install the bridge.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: "The bridge makes a huge difference for those wanting to use this popular route.

“We hugely appreciate the kind donation from Peak and Northern Footpath Society. I would also like to thank the landowner for his cooperation, which made the job much easier for the team."

Nigel Howe of Peak and Northern Footpath Society has inspected the bridge and added: “Peak and Northern Footpaths Society has a long and proud history in the provision and funding of bridges.

"The first record we have of contributing towards the cost of a footbridge was in 1925 when the society contributed one-third of the total cost of £25 11s 8 ½ d for a Footbridge over the River Derwent at Slippery Stones.”

“We believe that protecting rights of way is our fundamental purpose. This is why we are continually working with local authorities to improve the infrastructure of the footpath network, giving everyone the opportunity to continue walking through our wonderful countryside.”