A SENIOR government minister has visited Steeton and Silsden Railway Station to hear the arguments in favour of building a new pedestrian access bridge.

Secretary of State for Transport, Patrick McLoughlin, joined Kris Hopkins at the railway station on Monday to discuss the MP’s proposal for a pedestrian bridge over the A629.

Mr Hopkins said: “It is clear to everyone who uses the crossing that it’s dangerous and changes are required. That’s why I wanted Patrick to come here to see the situation for himself.

“A pedestrian bridge over the A629 would address the safety issues and allow easier access for disabled people.

“I believe this bridge would bring tangible improvement to Steeton and Silsden, and I welcome all support for it.”

Commenting after the Secretary of State's visit, ward councillor Andrew Mallinson said there has been a good case for at least six to seven years for a footbridge across the busy trunk road.

He said when he last investigated the cost of such a project, the quoted total came to nearly £1.5 million.

"The railway station is very busy and it serves such a wide area," he said. "It's not just people from Silsden and Steeton, people come here from Skipton and Lancashire too.

"Vehicles approach the roundabout, where the entrance to the railway station is, at considerable speeds. I don't think many of the motorists expect to encounter pedestrians crossing the bypass.

"For a pedestrian it's a very perilous journey to make. I've seen lots of parents with small children taking this route.

"There are also people having to cross on mobility scooters, as there are a number of nursing homes in the area. It's even more dangerous for them as they don't have the speed or agility to get out of the way quickly."