Harewood bridge reopens today

A major road bridge linking Harrogate with Leeds is reopening at lunchtime today (Friday 18 August).

Harewood Bridge, which carries the A61 over the River Wharfe, has been closed since 26 July for waterproofing, resurfacing and foot path repair works.

But Leeds City Council say the works have finished a week ahead of schedule, allowing them to reopen the bridge today.

This means vehicles, including local bus services, will be able to use the bridge again.

Leeds City Council say the "essential maintenance" will lead to more reliable journeys, less congestion caused by unplanned closures, and a reduced risk of accidents caused by potholes.

But they've warned that an overnight closure will "probably" be required in September to allow specialist surfacing work to be completed.

Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council's Executive Member for sustainable development and infrastructure, said she was "delighted" to see the bridge reopen.

"Thank you to the team and contractors for getting this important strategic route back open as quickly as possible," Cllr Hayden said.

She also thanked people "for their patience" and apologised "for any disruption during the works."