A public consultation will begin next month into the long-running bid to create a new walking and cycling route along an old Wharfedale railway line.

Sustainable transport charity Sustrans is working with local councils in Otley, Pool-in-Wharfedale, Menston and Burley-in-Wharfedale on the plan for what will be called the Wharfedale Greenway.

Designed to provide a ‘green’ alternative for people to access schools, shops and transport hubs, the scheme would create a new path along the former railway line between Pool and Burley.

Sustrans carried out a feasibility study into the project before it was picked up by the parish councils and Otley Town Council to drive forward.

Residents will get a chance to scrutinise the proposals between June 9 and 21, when exhibitions will be held at a variety of venues – to be announced –in each of the communities.