On 23rd June 2014, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Transport, Robert Goodwill, came to Queensbury Tunnel to hear about the challenges faced by its owner, the Highways Agency, in safely maintaining it and the benefits which could be accrued across the Yorkshire region by converting it to host a cycle path.
Mr Goodwill gave his impressions of the tunnel and the difficulties to be overcome - not least the costs involved in making it safe for public use - but recognised that "doing nothing is not an option" as the risk to properties on the surface has to be managed effectively. He was clear that the tunnel has the potential to be an asset, bringing recreational and tourist benefits as well as helping to boost the local economy.
