Harrogate bridge to be restored as cracks discovered

Restoration work has begun on a historic Harrogate bridge, after cracks were discovered in its arches.

The Grade II listed Oakdale Bridge on Penny Pot Lane has been monitored by North Yorkshire County Council.

The repairs were ordered by the authority after tests found the cracks required "urgent attention".

The council's highways contractors will also carry out parapet repairs and resurfacing. The work is expected to last for several weeks.

A diversion for motorists is in place, along the B616 via Beckwithshaw, on to the B6162 and then Harlow Moor Road.

Gareth Dadd, the council's executive member for highways, said: "These major repairs will restore the bridge's strength and condition to carry current volumes of traffic for years to come.

"Contractors will make every effort to complete the work as quickly and efficiently as possible to keep disruption to a minimum."