Safety measures at North Bridge to be questioned after inquest into death of Halifax schoolgirl

HM Coroner for the Western Area of West Yorkshire Martin Fleming

Speaking at an inquest into the 11-year-old’s tragic death Coroner Martin Fleming said he would write a letter asking Calderdale Council to look at the structure and monitor North Bridge after he recorded a verdict of suicide as the inquest was concluded today

READ IN FULL: Verdict reached into death of Halifax schoolgirl Ursula Keogh

The body of the Lightcliffe Academy pupil was found in the Hebble Brook, Halifax, on January 22.

It was confirmed by Richard Mills, Calderdale Council's highways asset manager, at Bradford Coroners Court that new CCTV cameras are to be installed next week.

The court head that there is currently CCTV on Haley Hill covers only part of the bridge creating a blind spot.

The family of Ursula Keogh requested signage be put up to ensure people knew they were being monitored. Mr Fleming said he wishes for this to happen.

Mr Mills also said that temporary measures to put a mesh lining across inside of bridge is being delayed in planning.

He said the Council may be able to have this up in eight weeks, with permanent measures, including the extension of the current parapets to two metres, to be put in place by May.

The Coroner confirmed he would be writing an order to Calderdale Council to request they have a look at the practises and infrastructure around the bridge.