Accident blackspot to get £2m investment

The staggered crossroad near Selby where the A63 joins the A19 has become an accident blackspot, with more than 33,000 cars on the route each day. Now, North Yorkshire County Council has begun a consultation on its plans to build the roundabout at the junction, easing motorists’ journeys between North Yorkshire and Hull.

Coun Karl Arthur, who represents the Barlby division on North Yorkshire County Council, said: “The construction of a roundabout at this notorious blackspot will be a relief to local people and to all who use this arterial highway.

“Because this is such a major project the construction will take many weeks, but we will do everything possible to keep disruption to a minimum, maintain safety for road users and deliver the project on time.”

The council is consulting over two possible schemes for constructing the roundabout. The first would involve a construction time of 22 to 24 weeks, but would see the road closed for the last 10 weeks and the Highfield View junction closed throughout. The second would take up to 36 weeks, but the road would only be closed for the final two weeks. Work is due to begin by the end of the year.

Coun Brian Marshall, who also represents the Barlby division, said: “It is paramount that we put in place the necessary speed limits and safety measures to protect the hundreds of pupils who attend Barlby’s two schools as well as local villagers. Once we have assurances on these matters I think the shorter option would be for the best. Whichever way the scheme is constructed Barlby will suffer so the shorter the timescale for construction the better.”

A public consultation will be held at Selby Market Cross on Monday next week from 9am.