Plans unveiled for £13m footbridge over A629 between Steeton and Silsden
Progress has finally been made on the major project
Last updated 25th Jul 2025
NEW images show how a £13m footbridge over a busy road will look as the long-planned scheme finally takes a step forward.
Proposals for a new crossing at the A629 between Steeton and Silsden date back years, but progress on the major project is finally being made.
Bradford Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority recently held a public consultation into the project, which will see a combined pedestrian and cycle bridge built over the busy road.
The feedback from the consultation has helped shape plans for the bridge, and the Authority has released new images showing what the crossing will look like.
However, the costly project is only one part of wider plans – with a second phase to create new paths from the centres of Steeton and Silsden to the bridge currently unfunded.
Reports written after the consultation say over 600 residents responded, with 85 per cent expressing support for the proposed bridge.
There was also strong public backing for the proposed new crossing points and ramp linking the railway station to Station Road.
One person responding to the consultation said: argued that an underpass or traffic light crossing would be better options.
The Authority has responded: “A bridge was considered the best option that aligned with the project’s objectives as it achieved the separation required between traffic and those walking, wheeling or cycling to improve safety for all users. Furthermore, there is less impact on traffic flow compared to a signalised crossing and there are greater safety and security benefits compared to an underpass.
“Flood risk would also be minimised when compared to an underpass.”
One respondent said: “I am concerned about unauthorised access by vehicles onto the bridge.”
The Authority said they will now install additional bollards at the entrance to either side of the bridge in response to these concerns.
Another said the design should allow for horse riders to use the bridge. In response the authority says: “The feasibility of accommodating equestrian users the bridge is being reviewed.”
One respondent raised concerns over the huge cost of the bridge. In response the Authority said: “The bridge will be funded through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement subject to the development of a successful business case.
“The funding is separate from council revenue funding for council services and is ringfenced by central government for use only to deliver sustainable transport improvements and cannot be spent on council services.”
The next stage of the project involves the submission of a planning application. Once planning is approved, the project team will move forward with the procurement of a construction partner.
A full business case will be submitted to the Combined Authority in early 2026.
If the planning application and full business case is approved, the new bridge is expected to open in spring 2027.