ILKLEY’S district councillors have said they are delighted that the installation of a puffin crossing on the A65 has recently been completed.

Following a meeting with local residents attended by Councillor David Nunns and Bradford Council highways officers, councillors secured funding in June 2022 to convert the existing zebra crossing by the Sunshine takeaway into a puffin crossing.

The feedback from residents was that the existing crossing was not safe and cars were failing to stop for pedestrians to cross. Bradford Council accident data showed that there had been three killed or seriously injured (KSI) and six slight accidents at the site.

Councillor David Nunns (Conservative, Ilkley) said: “I am very pleased to see that the puffin crossing at the junction of Leeds Road and Colbert Avenue has now been fully completed.

“This installation will go a long way to ensuring the long-term safety of the local people living in the area, as well as the many people using the facilities of the local businesses when crossing this busy stretch of the A65.”

Councillor Andrew Loy (Conservative, Ilkley) added: “We have kept chasing for progress on this, as there were unfortunately long delays in procuring and installing the equipment, but it is fantastic to see the lights now operational.

“We are keen to continue to work with local residents to deliver targeted and effective road safety improvements to address specific concerns.”

Ilkley Gazette: Councillor Anne Hawkesworth surveying the work at the crossing on Leeds Road, Ilkley, earlier this yearCouncillor Anne Hawkesworth surveying the work at the crossing on Leeds Road, Ilkley, earlier this year (Image: submitted)

Councillor Anne Hawkesworth (Independent, Ilkley) said: “I’m very pleased that this scheme is at last coming to fruition.”

She added she hoped it would prevent the feeling of isolation from the town of those living in the area.