Harewood Bridge on busy Leeds-Harrogate route reopens ahead of schedule

Harewood Bridge was closed to allow for several repairs to be carried out

A Grade II-listed bridge on a busy traffic route linking Harrogate and Leeds has reopened ahead of schedule after work was carried out.

Harewood Bridge, on the A61, had been expected to remain closed until 24 August, but reopened on Friday morning, Leeds City Council said.

The work had included waterproofing, resurfacing and footpath repairs.

Officials said a further overnight closure would be required in September to allow for specialist surfacing work.

Harewood Bridge, on the A61, is on a busy traffic route linking Harrogate and Leeds

Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council's executive member for infrastructure and climate, said: "Harewood Bridge is a strategic vehicle crossing used by thousands of people each day and therefore to close it requires careful planning.

"I'm delighted to see [it] reopen to vehicles almost a week ahead of schedule."