One of the Town Deal projects is entitled “Harbourside Public Realm Improvements” and involves closure of the Swing Bridge to traffic during peak hours, and some amount of pedestrianisation improvements. As a prerequisite of this traffic lights need to be installed at the junction of Whitby New Bridge and Spital Bridge / Larpool Lane. The traffic light work was recently postponed due to the wild fire at Langdale Moor. We enquired of North Yorkshire Council (NYC) as to the status of these different projects, and the timescales expected, because this will likely have an impact on life in the town, for resident and visitor. The answers are below; thanks to Karl Battersby at NYC.
1. Swing Bridge surface works timescales
In November 2023 there was a plan for waterproofing and resurfacing work on the swing bridge. It was apparently put back “until 2024” due to not being able to source the material. This work included a lighter coloured surface and its benefits in terms of reducing heat absorption.
NYC : The works are currently on hold while we carry out further assessment following findings from the recent trial holes. At this stage, we do not have a confirmed programme date. However, we recognise the importance of progressing this work and will schedule it once the assessment is complete.
2. Do we have an approximate timescale for the Spital Bridge work completion?
NYC : The works are now scheduled to commence on 08 September 2025, following a delay from the original start date of 01 September due to the ongoing moorland fire incident.
3. Do we have a consequential timescale for the town centre pedestrianisation works?
NYC : The construction phase for the Town Centre project is currently expected to begin in September 2026, with an estimated duration of approximately 12 weeks.
4. Is there a date by which this project must be completed to comply with the terms of the Town Deal funding?
NYC : Yes, the current deadline for eligible expenditure under the Town Deal funding is 31 March 2027.
