Public feedback shapes Steeton and Silsden pedestrian and cycle bridge plans

Thursday, 24 July 2025 17:40

The plans for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge over the busy A629 between Steeton and Silsden have taken another step forward.

Bradford Council and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority have published an engagement outcome report alongside a “You Said, We Did” report which, detail how public feedback has directly influenced the bridge’s latest design.

The new bridge is a key component of the Steeton and Silsden Connect scheme, which aims to improve safety and accessibility for those walking, wheeling, and cycling between the two communities. The scheme responds to long-standing local concerns about the dangers faced by those crossing the busy A629 dual carriageway.

Both the engagement outcome report and the You Said, We Did report – are now available on the Combined Authority’s YourVoice website at https://www.yourvoice.westyorks-ca.gov.uk/steeton-silsden-bridge.

The reports summarise the feedback gathered during public engagement earlier this year. Over 600 residents responded, with 85% 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.

[Artist impression looking north]

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said:

“We’ve listened to what local people have told us about the difficulty and danger of crossing the busy A629, and we’ve shaped the design around those concerns. Both the engagement outcome report and the ‘You Said, We Did’ report highlights how community feedback has influenced the plans.”

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. At the same time, work will continue on completing the full business case, which is expected to be submitted to the Combined Authority in early 2026.

If approved, the new bridge is expected to open in spring 2027.

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