Otley Bridge Tree Felling Plan Halted by Council Until New Year

Proposals to remove a 180-year-old oak tree in Otley, intended to facilitate the construction of a temporary footbridge, have been put on hold until the start of the new year. Both the oak and a tulip tree were scheduled for removal to enable Leeds City Council to erect a temporary crossing during repairs to the adjacent stone bridge’s walkway. The campaign organization Otley 2030 urged the council to re-evaluate its decision, suggesting alternative solutions that would not impact local wildlife. On Thursday, the local authority provided an update, stating that no additional measures concerning the trees would be implemented prior to 6 January “at the earliest.” The walkway itself was constructed in the 1950s as an extension to Otley Bridge, which spans the River Wharfe and originates from the 13th Century. Leeds City Council reiterated that its “preferred approach” remains the construction of a temporary crossing, as opposed to implementing three-way temporary traffic lights on the bridge. Councillor Jonathan Pryor, the deputy council leader, stated: “We recognise the strength of feeling from certain local community groups against the felling of the trees. Consequently, we have taken the decision to pause the felling.” He further added: “However, public safety has to be our main priority, and the essential replacement work to the footbridge will not be delayed regardless of the outcome for the trees.” The local authority indicated that the installation of the temporary bridge is scheduled to commence in March and last for approximately 12 weeks, with the new permanent footbridge anticipated to open in autumn. It also mentioned that any trees removed would be substituted with a minimum of 13 semi-mature trees throughout Otley, including in Tittybottle Park.