Date set for new bridge after tree felling row

Leeds City Council have released a new video outlining the works

A temporary footbridge will be installed this summer following the end of an environmental row.

Leeds City Council said the replacement for a "deteriorating" 1950s walkway on Otley Bridge would be in place by June.

It will remain in use until a new permanent pedestrian crossing over the River Wharfe is completed in October.

Works were delayed by the action of protesters who objected to the felling of a tree next to the bridge.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, executive member for economy, transport and sustainable development, said the walkway needed to be replaced "for pedestrian safety".

He added: "Vital work like this always involves some disruption and we will continue our best efforts to minimise any of this as much as possible."

The walkway was built in the 1950s as an add-on to the stone bridge, which dates back to the 13th Century.

The council - which has released a new animation video explaining the stages of the project - said the timeline was dependent on weather and river conditions, as well as the condition of Otley Bridge once the existing footway has been removed.

Mill Lane will be closed for vehicles from Bridge Street to Manor Street for the majority of the works, with a diversion to be put in place, the authority said.

It also warned that Otley Bridge would see some occasional traffic management during nights and some potential weekend closures, with residents to be notified well in advance.

The project faced backlash from environmental campaigners late last year when the council cut down the 180-year-old oak to make way for the temporary bridge.

The council said it was looking to donate part of the tree's trunk to Wharfedale Men's Shed, who were planning a community project which would see it being used to make park benches for the town.

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.