A boat load of work still to do on Elland bridge

The Canal and River Trust installed a 40 ton temporary bridge for utilities at the site of the flood damaged Elland bridge.

This bridge is in addition to the pedestrian crossing point, installed last month, and will carry utilities such as water, gas, electricity cables and telecoms.

The Leader of Calderdale Council, Councillor Tim Swift, said: “Elland bridge is in a very bad state, and will unfortunately have to be demolished.

“As well as previously being an important crossing point, the damaged bridge also carries important utility services. The installation of a separate crossing point to contain these services will ensure they are protected.”

The bridge was installed using a large crane which was also used to move the beached canal boats which have become an iconic image of the flooding.

The Ministerial Flood Recovery Envoy for Yorkshire Robert Goodwill announced last month that up to £5.5 million of funding is available to rebuild Elland Bridge and construct a temporary foot bridge nearby, after the historic crossing was damaged in the recent floods.

The Canal and Rivers Trust have submitted a demolition request to the council as it is a listed structure.

Coun Swift (Lab, Town) added that plans are already being drawn up by the trust for a replacement bridge.