In October, Highways England used emergency planning powers to infill one of Queensbury Tunnel’s ventilation shafts, creating a short blockage towards its southern end. But perhaps something positive will come out of this unwarranted vandalism.
In the past month, the Department for Transport has begun to engage with Bradford Council around the issues of feasibility and funding for a greenway connecting Bradford and Halifax via the tunnel. Whilst long overdue, this is obviously welcome and offers some cause for very cautious optimism.
With the General Election looming, politicians of all persuasions are showing off their green credentials, pledging to invest significant sums in sustainable transport provision. It’s clear that doing so is vital if we’re to address the health and environmental challenges now facing us. Legacy railway structures could play an important future role as key connectors so they mustn’t be lost to short-sighted decision-making by public officials.
The threat of abandonment continues to hang over Queensbury Tunnel despite its strategic value. Please help us stave it off and prevent £7M of public money being wasted by joining the 4,800+ people who have already objected to Highways England’s planning application.
Follow this link to read what others have said, then click ‘Make a Comment’ to have your say.
When asked to record your ‘Stance’, please ensure you select ‘OBJECT’.
Many thanks for your continued support.