A planning application has been submitted for the removal and replacement of Priory Drive Footbridge, creating a new pedestrian and cycle crossing over the railway line.
The existing reinforced concrete footbridge, which spans the Hull to Scarborough railway line at the eastern end of Priory Drive, is approaching the end of its service life and is beyond practical repair.
To progress the scheme, Hull-based engineering consultancy, Mason Clark Associates – who have been working on the development of the project since December 2025 – have submitted a design application to Hull City Council’s planning department, on the council’s behalf.
Subject to planning approval, the project will be delivered in three phases:
Phase 1 – Removal of the existing footbridge
Phase 2 – Construction and opening of the replacement footbridge with stepped approaches and temporary cycle wheeling channels
Phase 3 – Construction and opening of the permanent ramped approaches, completion of accessible ramps and removal of the interim cycle wheeling channel from the stairs
Delivering the work in phases will allow the crossing to be reopened at the earliest opportunity, while enabling the permanent accessibility improvements to be completed.
The footbridge provides vital access for pedestrians and cyclists travelling between Priory Drive, Priory Road, Hotham Road, and Bricknell Avenue, forming the only local access for residents and pupils travelling to Appleton Primary School, Wyke College, and Kelvin Hall Secondary School.
The crossing will be closed while the footbridge is removed and replaced. The council understand the significance of the closure and plans to work with local educational establishments, residents and other stakeholders to identify and plan temporary mitigations, such as a shuttle bus service for schoolchildren.
The design application has been developed in-line with engineering requirements and informed by consultation with key stakeholders, including Network Rail, land and property owners, residents directly affected by the proposals, and the local community.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council said: “Priory Drive Footbridge forms an important part of the local pedestrian and cycle network, enabling residents to make everyday journeys without relying on a car.
“Replacing the footbridge is essential to maintaining the connection between east and west of the railway line. It will also support access to schools, local services, and residential properties, while delivering a more accessible route for everyone.
“The suggested phased approach will allow the crossing to reopen as soon as possible, minimising disruption while work continues on the permanent accessible ramps.”
Andy Thompson, director of bridges at Mason Clark Associates said: “The existing footbridge has reached a stage where removal and replacement is the most appropriate solution.
“The proposed design provides a modern, accessible crossing that will continue to serve the community for decades to come, while making efficient use of the limited land available to the west of the structure.
“As a Hull-based company, we understand just how important this footbridge is to the local community. We are proud to be working with Hull City Council to secure the future of the crossing.”
Until a replacement can be constructed, the council continues to work collaboratively with Mason Clark Associates and Network Rail to inspect and monitor the structure.
In the meantime, the footbridge remains safe and open for public use.
The planning application will be open to public comments for a period of around four weeks.
To view the planning application, visit Accessing a planning application | Planning applications | Hull
For more information, and to keep up-to-date, visit Priory Drive Footbridge | Programmes – Bridges | Hull