The last piece in a funding puzzle which will lead to the replacement of a flood blighted bridge which stands as a gateway to a Hambleton business estate is in place.
The York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Enterprise Partnership has announced a £1.8m grant to the Dalton Bridge scheme today (June 9).
It means design work for the £3.5m project can be completed ready for building work to start later in the year.
David Dickson, Chair of the York, North Yorkshire and East Riding Enterprise Partnership Infrastructure Programme Board said: “Following the Christmas flooding, we wanted to invest in this work to improve the resilience at Dalton Industrial Estate. Businesses need reliable road networks to connect with their customers, and as we are here to grow our local economy, we are helping improve some network connectivity including roads.
“Dalton Industrial Estate includes some significant businesses and this investment will not only help those already there but will help encourage new investment too.”
And Hambleton District Council Leader, Councillor Mark Robson, added: “This is marvellous news for Hambleton – especially for the district’s economy. A new bridge will unlock the door to potential growth of the companies already trading there and attract new businesses – leading to new jobs and a boost for the local economy.”
Dalton Bridge – the main entrance to the Dalton Industrial Estate near Thirsk – has been troubled by flooding for many years. And when it occurs, it often results in the narrow stone hump backed bridge being closed for days restricting access to the estate and the neighbouring community.
The estate houses some of the district’s largest companies – many of which were founded there and now have global reach. It employs around 850 people in everything from steel stockists and pet food production to the second largest privately owned perfume and flavour business.
Planning permission has already been granted for a new bridge and a section of road at an elevated level with flood embankments to give a 1 in 100 year flood protection. The search for a contractor will now go out to tender later this year with construction completed in 2017.