The part of Otley Town Council’s StreetVision 2030 proposals relating to the widening of the pavement on the east side of Kirkgate, and consequent changes to parking restrictions on the west side, were debated at Leeds Civic Hall on 14th October 2025.
It was a fair and reasonable discussion chaired by the Deputy Leader of Leeds CC, Jonathan Pryor, with Nick Hunt of Leeds CC Highways, Ward Cllrs Campbell and Downes and Tim Wilkinson from Otley BID.
Cllrs Campbell and Downes and 14 out of 15 Otley Town Councillors wanted the scheme to proceed, Cllr Lay did not and Otley BIDs findings after our own consultation amongst the towns BID levy payers in December 2024 showed a strong feeling against the scheme. Otley BID’s report compiled in December 2024 was presented to Cllr Pryor for his consideration.
Ultimately the weight of political opinion was the determining factor and Cllr Pryor later determined, “This seemed a finely balanced decision, but given we now have two ward members in favour, it seems only right that the scheme, as amended following comments and feedback, goes ahead.”
We do not object to the aims of the scheme which are to make Kirkgate safer and more pleasant for all pedestrians, and to create a cafe culture environment. However, when surveyed our businesses raised concerns about losing short stay parking, the practicalities of receiving deliveries, the impact of narrowing the road, increased congestion and whether the proliferation of street furniture was beneficial. Otley BID is elected by businesses to represent their views.
The businesses we represent will be directly and financially affected by the scheme, and Otley BID is disappointed that it has been unable to ensure their views were given the weight they deserved in consultations.
Otley BID continues to believe the initial consultation of the general StreetVision 2030 report (response of 9%, some of which will no doubt have been in objection) followed by a cursory consultation on the specific Kirkgate proposals in Otley Matters December 2024 (response unknown) is considered a mandate to spend scarce public money on a divisive scheme. However, Otley BID must respect the decision Leeds CC has had to make, but in doing so distances itself from the consequences the decision will have on the businesses involved, traffic implications and public opinion.
The proposed Kirkgate Footway Widening Scheme for Otley can be read here: https://democracy.leeds.gov.uk/documents/s275572/REPORT.pdf.
Otley BID Directors