Shepley Bridge in Mirfield is an important transport link between housing, businesses, local amenities and key employment areas in Dewsbury, Mirfield and the Calder Valley Corridor.

The bridge has been deteriorating over time, and maintenance costs have increased. To mitigate further safety risks, traffic is restricted to one-lane and weight restrictions are in place.

In August 2026, a Shepley Bridge Structures Fund bid was submitted to the UK Governments Department for Transport.

Plans

A new bridge will be constructed adjacent to the current bridge which will remain open to all traffic until the new bridge is complete and operational, at which point, the old bridge will be removed.

Benefits

Economic

Safeguarding local business by maintaining access to local business and providing access suitable for heavy goods vehicles (HGV).

The bridge is essential for local productivity, supply chains, housing growth and Shepley Marina.

Connectivity and journey times

It will remove current traffic restrictions and restore two-way traffic flow, reducing journey times and distances for all road users and avoid lengthy diversions.

Environmental

Avoiding the long diversion routes will reduce vehicle emissions, noise and impact air quality in the local area.

The new bridge will be set back from the river reducing the risk of flooding.

Safety

Better pedestrian and cycle infrastructure improves safety for all road users.

Progress

August 2026

A Structures Fund Bid has been submitted to the Department for Transport.