Anxious Knaresborough councillors launch petition to save iconic visitors spot from 'irreversible collapse'
Councillors are warning that a scenic walkway at an iconic Knaresborough visitor spot is in danger of collapse and is at risk of becoming a “public safety threat".
Liberal Democrat county councillors Matt Walker and Hannah Gostlow have launched a public petition demanding that North Yorkshire Council takes immediate action to restore Viaduct Terrace by the River Nidd before, they say, “winter weather causes an irreversible collapse.”
Coun Matt Walker (Knaresborough West) said: “Knaresborough Viaduct is one of the defining images of North Yorkshire but right now the area beneath it is being left to crumble.
"Every month of delay increases the risk of further erosion and higher repair costs.
"North Yorkshire Council needs to stop dragging its feet.
"We need stabilisation works started before the winter rains hit, or we risk losing this landmark to a total washout.”
With the terrace beneath the iconic viaduct continuing to deteriorate, the councillors argue that a "winter washout" from the River Nidd could turn a manageable repair into a multi-million-pound disaster.
The “Fix Viaduct Terrace” campaign highlights what the councillors say are four critical risks:
Public Safety: The structural integrity of the terrace is compromised, posing an increasing risk to residents, visitors, and river users.
Economic Threat: As a primary driver of the region’s visitor economy, the derelict state of the terrace sends a “closed for business” message to tourists.
Fiscal Negligence: Early intervention is the only fiscally responsible path. Allowing the damage to worsen over winter will exponentially increase the cost to North Yorkshire taxpayers.
Heritage Loss: Failure to act threatens the long-term stability of one of the most photographed historic settings in the North.
Coun Hannah Gostlow (Knaresborough East) said: “Viaduct Terrace is the heart of Knaresborough’s character and local economy.
"Our independent cafés, shops, and hospitality businesses depend on an attractive, accessible riverside.
"People are fed up with seeing this jewel in our crown fenced off with orange barriers.
"We want a clear commitment from North Yorkshire Council to act now before the winter causes even more damage.”
The councillors are urging everyone to sign the petition at: https://c.org/7T9D2KDgFj