A new ramped bridge has opened in Leeds allowing riders, cyclists and pedestrians to safely cross an upgraded section of a railway line which intersects a bridleway.
The new bridge, which is located in Moor Garforth just outside Leeds, was funded by Network Rail and includes a rubber surface and mounting blocks on each side.
The bridleway previously used a level crossing to cross the railway line but that route was closed due to the TransPennine Route Upgrade electrification of the line. The upgrade work will increase the speed and quantity of train traffic therefore rendering the old crossing unsafe.
In December 2021, BHS Yorkshire Access Field Officer, Mark Corrigan, met with Network Rail and Leeds City Council’s Rights of Way Officer on-site at Moor Garforth. The BHS provided a key role in the development consultation from start to finish.
Safe passage
“We’re really pleased to see this new ramped bridge at Moor Garforth open, giving horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians a safe way to cross the railway again,” said Mark Weston, director of access at BHS.
“The project was funded by Network Rail as part of the TransPennine Route Upgrade. We were glad to work with them and Leeds City Council to help make sure the design works for equestrians, as well as pedestrians and cyclists. Features like the ramped access with rubber surface, and mounting blocks on both sides, make it safer and more accessible for horses and their riders.
“We’d like to thank Network Rail, contractors J. Murphy & Sons Ltd and all partners involved for working together to deliver this great improvement for the local community.”
Images © Bev Corrigan.
