A POPULAR riverside footpath close to Keighley town centre has reopened following the completion of long-awaited repairs to a flood wall.

The footpath – which runs from Lateral Bridge, by River Technology Park, to Pitt Street – was shut on the advice of the Environment Agency in 2021 after a retaining wall to the River Worth was found to be unstable.

Last year, campaigners voiced anger at continued delays to the repair scheme.

The Environment Agency blamed the delays on the "complexity" of the project.

An agency spokesperson says: "We're delighted to have now completed the repair works and reopened the path.

"The work was vital to reduce the flood risk to nearby properties, which remains our top priority.

"We'd like to thank the public for its patience and understanding whilst the work took place."

Keighley MP Robbie Moore was amongst those who pressed for action.

He says: "Thanks go to all who kindly contacted me about getting this footpath repaired and reopened, including the fantastic River Worth Friends. I know this is in an important route for many people.

"Following my correspondence with the Environment Agency, its contractor was mobilised and was onsite for several weeks carrying out repairs."