Friday 3rd February was an important day for the people of Tadcaster. Their road bridge over the River Wharfe was finally reopened following a massive rebuilding project. Part of the original bridge collapsed during the severe floods at the end of December 2015. When the water was low enought and divers could investigate, it was discovered that there were huge cavities in the river bed close to the bridge piers, and these needed filling before bridge repairs could start. The early part of the repairs was shown in March last year - http://365project.org/fishers/365/2016-03-05
Progress has been slow - high river levels in the autumn caused delays, and severe frost delayed the building of the masonry.
Still, the job is done, and the bridge was reopened, with massive crowds to witness it. The first people across were school children, who also helped to cut the ribbon to mark the reopening. The first vehicle across was a brand new Coastliner bus which will be operating between Leeds, Tadcaster, York and the Yorkshire Coast.
The reflection on the water is incredibly beautiful, Ian. Fav for me. Not usual to allow children to cut ribbons - it is always politicians who are prompt to push everyone aside and do that themselves.
Thank you all for your comments and favs. As usual, it's interesting to hear your thoughts on my shot.
All that remains now is for the formers under the arches to be removed, and the piles and earth barrier to be removed from the river bed - all jobs that can be done while the bridge is in use. By coincidence, another bridge reopening took place this week, with the completion of the new bridge in Elland, West Yorkshire. That was also badly damaged in the floods at the end of 2015.
Dione, don't worry, there were two politicians there with the children when the ribbon was cut at the reopening in Tadcaster, and both made TV appearances!
Thank you all for your comments and favs. As usual, it's interesting to hear your thoughts on my shot.
All that remains now is for the formers under the arches to be removed, and the piles and earth barrier to be removed from the river bed - all jobs that can be done while the bridge is in use. By coincidence, another bridge reopening took place this week, with the completion of the new bridge in Elland, West Yorkshire. That was also badly damaged in the floods at the end of 2015.
Dione, don't worry, there were two politicians there with the children when the ribbon was cut at the reopening in Tadcaster, and both made TV appearances!
Ian
Thank you Will - this has been a fascinating rebuilding to follow.
Ian