LONG-AWAITED improvements to the canal towpath between Skipton and Bradley are due to start in the autumn.

Working together, Craven District Council and the Canal and River Trust have secured £450,000 from the Department of Transport as part of the Cycle Ambition grant programme.

And it is hoped it will mean the transformation of the 2.5-mile (4k) stretch of the towpath, making it more accessible to walkers, runners and cyclists.

It is hoped it will also be used for people cycling to work at the Snaygill Industrial Estate.

Expected to take about ten weeks to complete, the project is the first phase of an ambitious plan by the Canal and River Trust to link Leeds to the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

It had been planned to start work in the spring, but was at first delayed because of some unexpected engineering factors, and then until after the summer months.

Craven councillor Simon Myers, lead member for Enterprising Craven, said he is delighted the project will finally start later in the year.

“It will improve links for residents and will benefit cyclists and walkers who struggle to use this stretch of the canal at present," he added.

“It will also link Skipton town centre with Snaygill Industrial Estate, the largest employment site in Craven district."

Plans are available for people to see and comments are welcomed.

Cllr Myers said: “We urge people to give their views on these plans and look forward to providing a better environment for residents and visitors alike."

The stretch of towpath is currently in a poor condition – muddy and with very little visible stone or hard surfacing – making it a difficult route for all but those on mountain bikes.

The Canal and River Trust has received complaints about its condition, and has noticed it is rarely used in the winter.

It proposes to resurface it with a self-binding material, with the final colour to be confirmed. In addition, repairs will be made, where necessary, and new signs installed, reminding people canals are special places for a variety of activities.

A trust spokesman said: “Due to the finite resources we work with, there were no immediate plans by the trust to undertake any significant works along this stretch of towpath with our own funds.

“Therefore, this represents a very valuable investment in our waterways by the Department for Transport, and one which we very much welcome.”

Plans are now available to view and residents are being asked for any comments on the proposals. Visit canalrivertrust.org.uk/about-us/consultations/current-consultations to take part or e-mail nick.smith3@canalrivertrust.org.uk with comments.

lWhat do you think? We welcome letters on this or any other subject. E-mail richard.parker@nqyne.co.uk or write to the Content Editor, Craven Herald, 38 High Street, Skipton BD23 1JU. Please include your full name, address and daytime telephone number.