CHANGES are to be made to a new £7 million car park after users voiced concerns over an access ramp.

The long-awaited multi-storey facility at Steeton and Silsden railway station, which was initially due to be operational four years ago, eventually opened in the summer.

But many motorists have complained of difficulties negotiating the level 2/3 ramp, for all but small vehicles.

Now it is planned to implement revised road markings and install new signage in a bid to help drivers.

And a camera will monitor vehicle movements to assess the impact.

The car park was built as part of West Yorkshire Combined Authority's Rail Park and Ride Programme, designed to increase access to train services through more station parking, as well as helping to reduce congestion and carbon emissions.

Rail company Northern operates the facility.

The firm said it was aware of the "challenges" faced by some users.

It added that while the car park did meet necessary design standards, there was an acceptance it could be difficult – particularly for larger vehicles – to enter and exit the facility.

Northern representatives have met onsite with contractor Network Rail and the project team to examine the situation and potential solutions.

As a result, quotations are being obtained for revised road markings and signage and a time-lapse camera.

Keighley East district councillor Caroline Firth, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority transport engagement lead for Bradford district, has been pushing for action and welcomes the move.

She says: "I am pleased the voices of residents have been heard on this issue and that there are plans to improve signage and road markings in the first instance.

"I’ll be following up to find out the results of the monitoring exercise and if this doesn’t work, I will be pushing for a plan B."

Over the years, the car park scheme was plagued by setbacks – and soaring costs.

The discovery on the site of casings from a Second World War munitions factory, and the building area's close proximity to the live railway line, were amongst the various obstacles encountered.

When the development eventually opened, the free-to-use car park was promoted as offering 245 parking spaces – an increase of 104 on the previous provision – including a number of bays specifically for blue-badge holders, and a lift to all levels.

Lighting was installed throughout, together with support for future electric vehicle charging infrastructure.