Knaresborough fears grow over iconic riverside walkway as collapse concerns mount

Visitors strolling along the River Nidd this summer are being met with fencing, warning signs and growing concern after part of one of Knaresborough’s best-loved riverside walkways collapsed earlier this year.

Now local councillors say urgent action is needed to stop the situation getting even worse before winter arrives.

Liberal Democrat councillors Matt Walker and Hannah Gostlow have launched a public petition calling on North Yorkshire Council to speed up repairs to Viaduct Terrace beneath the famous Knaresborough Viaduct.

The walkway, which offers some of the town’s most photographed riverside views, partially collapsed following a landslip in February.

Why locals are worried

Campaigners fear that without urgent repairs:

• Winter flooding could wash away more of the structure
• Repair costs could rise significantly
• Visitor numbers could be affected during peak tourism season
• Public safety risks could increase along the riverside

Councillor Walker warned that delays could have long-term consequences for both the town and its economy.

“Knaresborough is open for business, but it’s not looking as it should be.”

He also raised concerns that further sections could eventually collapse if erosion beneath the walkway continues.

One of Knaresborough’s most scenic spots

Viaduct Terrace sits beneath the towering railway viaduct and alongside the River Nidd — one of the most recognisable and photographed areas in North Yorkshire.

The riverside route is especially popular with:

• Day visitors exploring Knaresborough
• Families walking along Waterside
• Boaters and riverside cafés
• Photographers capturing the viaduct views
• Tourists visiting the castle and town centre

The closure has already changed the look and feel of the riverside area during one of the busiest times of year.

Residents say winter could make things worse

Local resident Angela Mountain said heavy rain regularly transforms the River Nidd into a fast-flowing torrent during winter months.

She warned that stronger river currents and debris could wash away more of the foundations beneath the damaged terrace.

“It will continue to wash under this structure and could wash away more of what’s underneath.”

Mountain said local volunteers had spent years planting flowers and improving the area before the collapse forced the walkway to close.

“It’s really upset everybody that this isn’t being taken seriously by the council,” she added.

Petition passes 500 signatures

The campaign has already attracted more than 500 signatures and will now be presented to the Harrogate and Knaresborough Area Committee.

Councillors are hoping the incident can be officially reclassified as “urgent” to allow repairs to begin sooner.

What North Yorkshire Council says

North Yorkshire Council says any repair scheme must first receive approval from both Network Rail and the Environment Agency.

The authority says the earliest work could begin would likely be towards the end of the year, depending on approvals and ground conditions.

For now, safety cordons remain in place beneath the viaduct while surveys and engineering plans continue.

Why this matters for Knaresborough

The damaged walkway sits at the heart of Knaresborough’s visitor experience — connecting the riverside, boat hire area, cafés and historic town centre.

With thousands of tourists expected throughout summer, many locals fear delays could affect both the appearance and reputation of one of North Yorkshire’s most picturesque destinations.