PRESSURE has been put on the Government this week to stump-up the estimated £3.6 million needed for a footbridge over the Aire Valley trunk road.

Keighley MP Robbie Moore raised the issue of the bridge – which would span the A629, between Steeton and Silsden – during Treasury Questions in the Commons.

He said it had taken Bradford Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority nearly four years to produce an outline business case for the scheme, but that he would be “using every opportunity” to press for funding so work could get under way.

“I am determined to see the pedestrian bridge built so that we can ensure a safe crossing over the busy dual carriageway for the many residents of Silsden and Steeton who cross that road on a daily basis,” said Mr Moore.

“Since I stood for election to become the MP for Keighley and Ilkley, I have pledged to support the construction of this bridge in whatever way I can.

“In early March, before the coronavirus lockdown, I met with Minister for Roads Baroness Norbiton to push the case. I will keep lobbying ministers to secure the necessary funding.”

It is proposed to build the bridge diagonally over the Steeton/Silsden roundabout.