Station at heart of town ‘gateway’ improvements

PLANS TO make Skipton and its railway station a “21st century gateway” will be discussed by senior councillors.

The proposals include improved pedestrian links to the station, pedestrian improvements to Black Walk, the replacement of the Gallows Footbridge over the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, public realm improvements in the town centre and improvements to road junctions.

The scheme, expected to cost £5.8m, will be discussed by West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Investment Committee at a virtual meeting on Tuesday morning.

The committee will be asked to approve work on the next stage of the project, developing an outline business case.

Funding for the scheme, which has been dubbed the Active and Sustainable Travel Across Skipton Town Centre package, will come from the Combined Authority.

A report to the committee says: “Skipton station is the second busiest in North Yorkshire, and projections show significant future growth. However, its existing public realm and accessibility result in a poor-quality transport gateway.

“The package will provide a 21st century gateway, responding to the current and future (projected) high usage of Skipton Railway Station, and offering a high-quality user experience ensuring the train becomes a more viable commuting travel option for more people.

“The package will particularly improve access to the station for cyclists and pedestrians.

“The main objective is to enhance the station’s status as a strategically important sustainable transport gateway to the town and surrounding area.”