Councillors for Knaresborough have launched an urgent campaign and public petition regarding the condition of the town's viaduct terrace.
Councillors are demanding that North Yorkshire Council (NYC) take immediate action to restore the terrace, which collapsed in February, before winter weather causes a further ‘irreversible collapse.’
Councillors Matt Walker and Hannah Gostlow are warning that the Council’s current "wait and see" approach is a “reckless gamble” with public safety and the town’s vital tourism economy.
They’re arguing that a "winter washout" from the River Nidd could “turn a manageable repair into a multi-million-pound disaster.”
Cllr Matt Walker (Knaresborough West) said:
“Knaresborough Viaduct is one of the defining images of North Yorkshire, but right now the area beneath it is being left to crumble.
“Every month of delay increases the risk of further erosion and higher repair costs.
“The Council needs to stop dragging its feet; the River Nidd will not wait for bureaucratic approval cycles. We need stabilisation works started before the winter rains hit, or we risk losing this landmark to a total washout.”
Cllr Hannah Gostlow (Knaresborough East) added:
“Viaduct Terrace is the heart of Knaresborough’s character and local economy.
“Our independent cafés, shops, and hospitality businesses depend on an attractive, accessible riverside.
“People are fed up with seeing this jewel in our crown fenced off with orange barriers. This isn't just about an eyesore; it’s about protecting jobs, tourism, and community pride.
“We want a clear commitment from North Yorkshire Council to act now, before the winter causes even more damage.”
The “Fix Viaduct Terrace” campaign claims four critical risks:
- 'Public Safety: The structural integrity of the terrace is compromised, posing an increasing risk to residents, visitors, and river users.'
- 'Economic Threat: As a primary driver of the region’s visitor economy, the derelict state of the terrace sends a “closed for business” message to tourists.'
- 'Fiscal Negligence: Early intervention is the only fiscally responsible path. Allowing the damage to worsen over winter will exponentially increase the cost to North Yorkshire taxpayers.'
- 'Heritage Loss: Failure to act threatens the long-term stability of one of the most photographed historic settings in the North of England.'
The councillors have launched a petition to ask North Yorkshire Council to reclassify the restoration as an urgent priority.
Find the petition here: https://c.org/7T9D2KDgFj
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