New footbridge for picturesque Horton-in-Ribblesdale station
The first phase of a major accessibility upgrade in Cumbria is completed
The first phase of a major accessibility upgrade for passengers in Cumbria is completed.
A new footbridge has been installed as part of a multi-million-pound investment to make Horton-in-Ribblesdale station safer and more accessible.
The station, which is on the Settle to Carlisle line, is close to Pen-y-Ghent, a fell that features in the Yorkshire Three Peaks walk.
Previously, passengers and walkers were required to cross the tracks over a foot crossing.
The bridge forms the new public right of way, offering a safer alternative to crossing the railway at ground level.
A temporary crossing is in place at the north of the station while the work to install lifts is carried out. This is expected to be completed by next summer (2025).
Rory Kingdon, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail said:
“The work to install a bridge and lifts at Horton-in-Ribblesdale station means a safer experience for passengers and people embarking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks walk.
“The bridge has been designed to complement the picturesque landscape it sits within, to celebrate the rich railway heritage along the Settle to Carlisle line.
“From Summer 2025, Horton-in-Ribblesdale station will be step-free, meaning it will be much more accessible for everyone.”
£1m of the funding for this project comes from the Department for Transport’s Access for All programme. The station is managed by train operator, Northern.
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood said:
“This new bridge at Horton-in-Ribblesdale station rightly gives everyone the chance to experience the idyllic scenery the area has to offer.
“Our transport systems should be truly accessible and inclusive for everyone, and championing the rights of people with disabilities is at the forefront of our plans to overhaul the railways.”
Kerry Peters, regional director for Northern, said:
“We are working hard, both here at Northern and with external industry partners, to improve accessibility at our stations – including Horton-in-Ribblesdale. The new bridge and lifts will make a real difference to the travel experience of people visiting the area and we look forward to the work being complete and available for customers to use.”
Julian Smith, MP for Skipton and Ripon, said:
"It's great to see investment going towards improving safety for passengers and walkers in this wonderful area. I'm pleased that the project keeps accessibility in mind too."