DELAYED repairs to a 300-year old bridge in Horton-in-Ribblesdale are to finally get underway on Monday, November 7.

The work to repair a large crack on the arch barrel of the grade two listed Gray Bridge, which dates back to the 18th century, and is the main route through the village to the Dales is expected to take around four weeks and will cost more than £60,000

North Yorkshire County Council had originally planned to do the work in February, but put it on hold after concerns were raised about farmers not being able to use the bridge, and being forced to take long diversions, during the busy lambing time.

The large-scale repairs will involve excavating down to the arch barrel, strengthening the bridge with a concrete saddle and repointing. Repairs are also required following a recent collision.

As the bridge is very narrow, the road will be closed to all traffic and pedestrians, but the footbridge to the west will be open, says the council.

Councillor Keane Duncan, the county council's executive member for highways and transportation, said: “The bridge is incredibly old and unfortunately a large crack has appeared in the arch barrel. The upcoming works will strengthen the bridge to prevent further damage.”

To minimise the inconvenience to residents who live on the Settle side of the bridge, National Parks is issuing parking permits for its car park during the closure. The county council’s passenger transport team is also splitting the school bus route and organising for drop-off and pick-ups at the car park.

Cllr David Staveley, who represents the Settle and Penyghent division on the county council, said he was sorry for the inconvenience the closure would cause and he urged people to familiarise themselves with the diversion route.

He said: “We would like to apologise in advance for the disruption the closure will cause. However, having listened to residents’ concerns, we feel this offers the least inconvenient option.

“I would urge all residents to familiarise themselves with the diversion route and please share this with any friends or neighbours who may not be aware of the closure.”

The 30 mile diversion will take motorists along Station Road/B649 towards the Pennine Way, then the B6480 and onto the A65. Then onto Laundry Lane, Back Gate/B6255, Gauber Road, Ingman Lodge Road, Selside Shaw Long Lane/B6479.

For details of the diversion route visit the county council’s roadworks map at www.northyorks.gov.uk/roadworks-map