Boost for plans to extend Nidderdale Greenway from Harrogate to Pateley Bridge

A study to recommend possible routes for the extension of the Nidderdale Greenway has had a cash boost.
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The existing six-mile long Nidderdale Greenway path has been open since 2013, utilising a disused railway track to provide a traffic-free route between Harrogate and Ripley.

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The aspiration has always been to extend the Greenway right into the heart of Nidderdale at Pateley Bridge, and even as far as Scar House Reservoir.

Cycling charity Sustrans is producing a report on the possibility of extending the Nidderdale Greenway into Pateley Bridge.Cycling charity Sustrans is producing a report on the possibility of extending the Nidderdale Greenway into Pateley Bridge.
Cycling charity Sustrans is producing a report on the possibility of extending the Nidderdale Greenway into Pateley Bridge.

The latest donation from housing developer Newby, which is currently working on the redevelopment of Glasshouses Mill, will allow cycling charity Sustrans to produce a report detailing the recommended route, as well as possible alternative options between Clint and Pateley Bridge. Options from Pateley to Scar House Reservoir will then be assessed, and feedback is being sought from landowners and parish councils about the best way to move forward.

The Nidderdale Greenway is part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network, and the charity wants to see more traffic-free miles added to it to make it safer and more accessible. It also wants to make sure that the route makes the most of what the area has to offer.

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Campaigner and Sustrans volunteer Malcolm Margolis is spearheading fundraising for the campaign and, together with fellow volunteer David Hall, is talking with landowners on behalf of Sustrans.

Malcolm said: “We are very grateful to Newby for its generous donation and we’re delighted the feasibility study is now underway. Over 200,000 people a year currently use the Nidderdale Greenway and it’s extremely popular with locals and visitors alike. Extending it to Pateley Bridge would make it accessible to so many more and provide a fantastic resource for people looking to explore or get active in a safe location. It also means we’re not adding to any traffic congestion in the area, as cyclists have a safer option than having to use local roads.”

Frazer Roberts, Managing Director of Newby, added: “The Nidderdale Greenway is a fantastic local resource and we know it’s one which will be appreciated by those who buy one of our properties at Glasshouses Mill. It’s such a picturesque location and ideal for those who enjoy keeping active and getting out into the great Yorkshire Dales. We look forward to seeing the plans for the Greenway develop over the coming months and years.”