ILKLEY'S Old Bridge is to undergo full refurbishment work this autumn.

The historic structure over the River Wharfe – connecting Stockeld Road and Clifford Road – is scheduled for eight to ten weeks, with work beginning in late September or early October.

Work will involve jetwashing, vegetation clearing, raking out and re-pointing mortar joints, waterproofing and resurfacing the deck, and repairing scour. Bradford Council says pedestrian access will be affected over the footbridge.

It has also indicated it is looking into raising the height of the parapet, in compliance with today's bridge standards.

A concerned member of the public contacted the Ilkley Gazette asking why this was necessary.

Sir Rodney Brooke, of Cliffe Road, said: "Over the years, I have crossed the bridge some 12,000 times.

"I have never feared I might fall over the parapet. I have seen no alarm on the face of my fellow pedestrians.

"Our graceful 17th century bridge is the iconic start of the Dales Way. Raising the parapet would fatally change its elegant profile."

But ward councillor, Anne Hawkesworth, (Ind, Ilkley), welcomed the work.

She said: "I welcome this initiative. It is essential to maintain not only the heritage of Ilkley and this bridge, but also the valuable access point for walkers and cyclists from one side of the river to the other at this end of the town."