Improvements on A64 danger junction

Residents living close to Barton crossroads, near Castle Howard, between York and Malton, regard it as one of the most dangerous A64 junctions between Leeds and Scarborough.

The first stage of a scheme to improve the crossroads is now under way. However, the second phase of the work has yet to get the go-ahead.

North Yorkshire County Councillor Clare Wood, who has leading a campaign for safety measures on the A64 especially at Barton crossroads, claimed it was vital the work to change the junction arrangements to Castle Howard was carried out as soon as possible.

She said: “The scheme has not only been highlighted as crucial by local residents, but also by the North Yorkshire Coroner, Michael Oakley, who has been repeatedly concerned because of the fatal accidents which have occurred.”

One of the biggest problems, she said, was heavy goods vehicles crossing the dual carriageway and traffic heading towards Malton, speeding down Barton Hill.

Coun Wood added that the safety measures to be carried out at the crossroads include improved signage, clearing vegetation and trees, resurfacing work and an improved skid resistance area. It is hoped a second stage of works will provide a slip road from the Castle Howard approach, to a point further towards Whitwell.

The Highways Agency said it was one of several improvement schemes going ahead this year on the busy A64 trunk road through Ryedale, including the Sands Lane junction at Rillington as well as improvements at Huttons Ambo, the Whinny Lane and Claxton Hall estate crossroads, the Ganton and Whitwell gap closures, and the A169 Pickering road interchange at Old Malton.