The Knaresborough Viaduct is the heart of our town’s character and one of North Yorkshire’s most treasured landmarks. However, the ongoing landslip at Viaduct Terrace now threatens the safety, beauty, and economic vitality of our riverside.

​We, the undersigned, urge North Yorkshire Council to stop the delays and prioritise the restoration of the terrace immediately.

​Why North Yorkshire Council must act now:

​Public Safety & Property Risk: The stability of the terrace is deteriorating. We must act before the structural compromise poses a direct danger to residents, visitors and river users

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Prevent a "Winter Washout": The River Nidd and winter weather will not wait for bureaucratic cycles. Delaying repairs until 2027 risks significantly greater erosion, turning a manageable project into a multi-million-pound disaster.

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Fiscal Responsibility: Using public funds for early intervention is common sense. It is far more cost-effective to stabilise the site now than to fund a total reconstruction after further winter damage.

​Protect the Local Economy: Knaresborough’s independent shops, cafés, and boat hires rely on our picturesque riverside. A visible decline and long-term closure send a “closed for business” message that our tourism-dependent economy cannot afford.

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Preserving Our Heritage: This historic environment is a primary driver of the region’s visitor economy. We must safeguard this iconic location for residents and future generations.

​Our Request:

​We call on North Yorkshire Council to reclassify the Viaduct Terrace landslip as an urgent priority and begin meaningful stabilisation works before the onset of winter weather.

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Don’t let Knaresborough’s iconic view—and public safety—wash away. Act now.