An important step forward has been taken in our campaign to save Queensbury Tunnel for a sustainable transport role. The West Yorkshire Combined Authority has formally submitted a request for £23 million in funding to create and maintain a greenway connecting the urban centres of Bradford and Halifax, with the tunnel as its centrepiece. The move comes as part of WYCA’s ‘Transforming Cities’ bid for major infrastructure investment across the Leeds City Region.
The documentation refers to the tunnel as a “significant opportunity” to form “a new cycling and walking route which would preserve this historic asset for future generations.” As well as offering 14,000 daily commuters a viable alternative to their cars, the tunnel would serve as a honeypot attraction for tourism, replicating other successful cycle routes in Bath and the Peak District.
But there is a dark cloud. Highways England has refused Bradford Council’s request to pause its plans to abandon Queensbury Tunnel for a few months until the outcome of the funding application is known. This intransigence is inexplicable given that a successful bid would free it and the Department for Transport of all responsibility for the structure. Highways England is contriving to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.
As a consequence of this action, it’s more important than ever to increase pressure on Bradford Council to reject the planning application for the tunnel’s abandonment. Doing so would make the option of a greenway considerably more attractive to decision-makers. An unprecedented number of objections have already been submitted, with the total now standing within sight of 5,000.
Once again, could you please seek the help of your friends, family and workmates to secure the 98 objections we currently need to pass this landmark. Below is a link to the Council’s planning portal (be aware, it can be slow to respond) where you can read what other objectors have said; to have your say, just click ‘Make a Comment’ at the top of the page.
When asked to record your ‘Stance’, please make sure you select ‘OBJECT’.
As we approach the end of a year which has brought much encouragement and one outrageous act, we’ve produced a one-minute video looking back at key events around the campaign in 2019. Such has been Highways England’s mismanagement of the ongoing preparatory works, the likely cost of abandonment has risen to £7 million, more than the Council’s estimate for repairing the tunnel. This is a battle the taxpayer cannot afford us to lose.
Have a wonderful time over the festive period and many thanks for your continued support.