We’re delighted to announce that additional capital investment funding has been successfully secured for essential improvements to the Trans Pennine Trail. These vital enhancements will involve the construction of two new bridge decks, one at Bullhouse Bridge over Manchester Road, Millhouse Green, and the other at Hazelhead Bridge over Whams Road, near Flouch. These projects are aimed at ensuring the safety and continued usability of these crucial connections for Trans Pennine Trail users.

Specialist engineers and our Public Rights of Way Team are already hard at work preparing the contract and design documents, with plans to release tenders before Christmas.

Cllr James Higginbottom, Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Highways said: "The Trans Pennine Trail plays a significant role in connecting communities, promoting outdoor recreation, and enhancing the quality of life in our borough.

“We are committed to ensuring the safety and accessibility of this trail for residents, visitors, and communities.

“Securing this capital investment funding is a significant step forward, and we are eager to see these improvements take place."

While the Council is keen to progress these works, an exact timeline for the project's completion cannot be confirmed until tenders are returned and contracts are negotiated with the selected company.

Bullhouse Bridge deck was last inspected in May 2022 and was found to be unsafe. As a result, Trans Pennine Trail users heading west from Penistone have had to take a short diversion onto Manchester Road and back up the other side. The Hazelhead Bridge deck, installed around the same time, is currently safe for use but is due for replacement within the next 12 months. The Council recognises the importance of addressing these issues promptly, particularly with the Hazelhead Bridge, as there is no alternative route for Trans Pennine Trail users. A brief closure of the trail will be necessary during the replacement of the Hazelhead Bridge deck, and further details and advance warning notices will be provided on-site when available.

We would like to thank all Trans Pennine Trail users and the National TPT Office for their patience and understanding while these works are tendered, contracted, and completed on-site.

For further information and updates on the Trans Pennine Trail bridge upgrades, please visit https://www.transpenninetrail.org.uk/central/