The proposed development of the derelict Airedale Mills site adjoining the access to the Reserve will involve the replacement of the old canal swing bridge together with additional road works to the approach on Moss Bridge Road. Outline planning permission has already been granted and the development is now planned to go ahead in the new year.
The developer has assessed that this could take up to 5 months and during this period there will be no access for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians over the canal and the Trust has no option but to close the Reserve to the public after Sunday 2nd January. The closure period is uncertain and will depend on weather conditions and how work progresses – information about a reopening date will be posted on the website and social media as soon as it is known.
Trustees are aware of the importance of the Reserve to both wildlife and the community and will strive to minimise the duration of the closure.
The Trust regrets the necessity for the closure but looks forward to welcoming back our many visitors, migrant birds, butterflies and moths in the spring of 2022.
Rodley Nature Reserve Trust
24 December 2021
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