Bridge to remain open for longer in bad weather

A major bridge over the River Wharfe can now remain open for longer during bad weather following the results of a new assessment, North Yorkshire Council has revealed.

Tadcaster Bridge, which links the two halves of the town, has been closed five times to road users since October 2023 due to rising river levels.

Previously the council had to close the bridge when the river hit approximately 2.42m (7ft 9in) but now, following an engineering inspection, the bridge can stay open until levels reach 2.8m (9ft 1in).

Council leader Carl Les said the change would come as "welcome news" to residents and drivers.

In December 2015 the 18th century bridge, which carries the A659 over the river collapsed following severe flooding and did not reopen again until 2017.

Without it, motorists had to take a 16-mile round trip to get from one side of Tadcaster to another.

The recent engineering assessment on the bridge was commissioned by the Environment Agency as part of their development of a flood scheme for Tadcaster.

Their assessment concluded the bridge did not need to close until the river hit 2.8m (9ft 1in) on the flood gauge, meaning should there are fewer closures during heavy rainfall, the council said.

Mr Les said: "For the residents of Tadcaster and road users of the A659, the results of this comprehensive bridge assessment come as welcome news."

He added that road closures were only implemented when "absolutely necessary", explaining that regular use of the bridge when the River Wharfe is fast flowing and at high levels could result in long-term damage to the listed structure.

The town's Flood Action plan, had previously demanded answers after regular closures of the bridge had led to concerns from local residents and businesses.

Tadcaster councillor Kirsty Poskitt said: "Any closures of Tadcaster Bridge can cause frustration for local residents and road users of the A659.

"There have also been concerns about inconsistencies in when the bridge closes but now I'm really pleased to see concerns have been listened to and I'm delighted the bridge can remain open for longer."

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