OTLEY is teaming up with Dutch experts to create a ‘safer, greener town’.

The Town Council has appointed Mobycon as consultants for its StreetVision2030 project - which aims to transform Otley into a more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly place. The company will work with the council and an advisory group during 2020 on plans to fulfil those goals.

Project Lead Councillor Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) said: “I am delighted to welcome Mobycon.

“I have seen the impact of their work in small towns in the Netherlands and am excited to see how their skills and experience can be brought to our situation in Otley. Making it safer and easier for people to leave the car at home and walk or cycle for the short journey will make a significant impact on reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality.”

Senior Consultant at Mobycon, Jason Colbeck, said: “Our team are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the council and the people of Otley to help realise StreetVision2030. Being from Leeds, but now living and working in the Netherlands, I’m inspired by the Dutch approach to creating vibrant, liveable communities that enable people to walk and cycle.”

The scheme has attracted cross-party support. Leeds City Council’s Executive Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainable Development, Councillor Lisa Mulherin (Lab, Ardsley and Robin Hood) said: “I welcome the initiative and congratulate the town council on establishing this important project. We have shared objectives to tackle the Climate Emergency.”

Town Councillor Mick Bradley (Green, Danefield) said: “Working together to tackle the Climate Emergency transcends party politics; I look forward to seeing the vision becoming a reality.”

Mobycon will start detailed work in Otley, including street surveys and analysing traffic data, during February and March. Residents will be consulted this summer with a final vision and costed action plan to be produced in the autumn.

The town’s ward Councillors Sandy Lay, Ryk Downes and Colin Campbell (all Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said: “We applaud this initiative and will work to ensure our community is fully involved in the consultations that are planned as the project develops.”

MP Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West) added: "I am in full support of the objectives set out in the StreetVision2030 project and look forward to working with Otley Town Council and Leeds City Council to ensure we deliver a greener, cleaner and safer Otley.

"I look forward to seeing how the plan develops and will be doing what I can, working with every agency, to take forward the proposals that work for Otley."