Children's lives have been at risk from live electric cables on a busy Wharfedale road, a senior councillor has claimed

Councillor Graham Kirkland (Lib Dem, Otley & Wharfedale) said that the central refuge on the Otley bypass, close to Leeds Road roundabout, is constantly being hit by motor vehicles, demolishing the 'keep left' lighted sign and the chevron boards.

He claims that over the New Year holidays, the bollard was knocked out of the ground leaving two electrical cables sticking up, which were taped and covered by a cone.

Due to high winds, the cone blew away, leaving the taped but frayed cables exposed.

Coun Kirkland said he contacted Halcrow, the contractors responsible for maintaining the road for the Highways Agency, and another cone was put on.

"It's shocking that it hasn't been repaired after all this time," said Coun Kirkland.

"This is a potentially lethal hazard to children who use the refuge to cross the bypass."

Coun Kirkland has written to the Highways Agency demanding the repairs be done before a serious accident occurs.

A spokesman for the Highways Agency apologised for the delay, but said that the repairs had now been made.

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