TWO Great Harwood councillors are calling on Hyndburn Council to press for the complete reopening of the Martholme Viaduct as a walkway connecting Hyndburn and Ribble Valley.

The imposing grade II-listed structure dating from 1877 stands over the River Calder.

Work has already seen measures to create a Martholme Greenway from Great Harwood towards Padiham.

Now Netherton Labour Councillors Noordad Aziz and Jodi Clements want to see it reopening as a walkway connecting the township and Ribble Valley.

The viaduct partially reopened in 2017 after a 16 year closure caused by the 2001 foot and mouth disease outbreak.

The two councillors have submitted a motion of Hyndburn Council's full meeting on Thursday which commends the diligent efforts of the community group Martholme Greenway and its dedicated volunteers in maintaining and enhancing the footpath surrounding the viaduct.

It asks the authority to write to Lancashire County Council to confirm its support for the complete reopening of the Martholme Viaduct as a walkway connecting Hyndburn and Ribble Valley.

Cllr Aziz said: "The Martholme Viaduct, with its rich history and architectural significance, has the potential to foster greater connectivity and enhance walkways.

"By restoring the viaduct as a complete pedestrian walkway, residents and visitors will have the opportunity to explore the area’s scenic beauty while promoting healthier lifestyles.

"The complete reopening of the Martholme Viaduct will not only serve as a valuable asset to local residents but also boost tourism, promote economic growth, and provide a missing link connecting Hyndburn and Ribble Valley.

“We have witnessed the benefits of one side of the Martholme Viaduct opening, and now we are advocating for its complete reopening.”

Cllr Jodi Clements said: “I am delighted to support this motion, building on the commendable work of the community group Martholme Greenway, which has greatly improved the path on both sides of the viaduct.”

The viaduct was completed in 1877 and consists of 10 rounded arches, each around 12 metres wide.

It served trains running on the North Lancashire Loop, also known as the Great Harwood Loop, a nine-mile route through the town, as well as Simonstone and Padiham.