Bridge prepared for public opening

Parish councillors and villagers will gather on Sunday to celebrate the completion of the new Ridge Mill bridge at Cowling, near Skipton.

The new bridge – which was completed by North Yorkshire County Council – is designed to last at least 120 years.

County Councillor Clare Wood, executive member for rural services, said: “This project demanded special engineering foundations to ensure that the structure is outside the usual erosion zones of the river bank. The bridge is a vital part of village life in Cowling, and we are confident that this is the best way of ensuring a long and trouble-free life for it.”

The bridge’s predecessor was destroyed two years ago. The new bridge is believed to be the third at the site, and provides a key link on a footpath network around Cowling. The first crossing – a masonry cart bridge – was washed away in 1962.

County Councillor Patrick Mulligan, the local member for Airedale which includes Cowling, said: “It’s great news for Cowling, congratulations to everyone involved.”