Councils prepare to relinquish control over local roads

Both councils have managed the roads in their own areas for the past 35 years and had vehemently opposed county council plans to take over control, as they claimed it would cost taxpayers more and work would not be done to an acceptable standard.

When the proposals first emerged back in 2007, both councils considered taking the decision to the High Court for a judicial review.

But last year, the handover took place in Harrogate, and now from April 1, the county council will assume responsibility for all highway and traffic issues in Scarborough.

Coun Tom Fox, the leader of Scarborough Council, said: “We had opposed it as we thought there were more benefits in local delivery.

“But once they made the decision we have worked together to make it a steady transition when the handover takes place.

“A lot of hard work has gone into this.”

Scarborough Council had provided the highways service for the town on behalf of North Yorkshire County Council since 1975, with the local authority looking after the remainder of the district.

From April, all highways staff and resources will transfer to the county council, making it responsible for all roads in North Yorkshire - apart from ones covered by York Council and the Highways Agency.

But bosses stress it will be a seamless handover.

A county council spokesman said: “The service will continue to be delivered in line with county council policy and practices. This will help to retain local knowledge, expertise and continuity in service delivery.

“From April 1 all highway and traffic and transportation queries or requests should be directed to the North Yorkshire County Council Customer Service Centre on 0845 8727374.”