Ruling soon to be made on re-aligning troubled stretch of A59 near Harrogate

North Yorkshire County Council’s Executive will decide on July 24 over the preferred route for the A59 at Kex Gill, after plans were put forward by Highways officers.

The proposal is to build a 5.4km-long single carriageway along the northern slope of the gill, which the council says could take 14 months to complete.

The road was last closed in May following the discovery of a crack, caused by instability underneath the carriageway.

At present the road is only open to single file traffic and awaiting permanent repair.

NYCC has previously stated the long-term solution to problems on the road is re-alignment and has held two consultations on the proposed route.

Executive Member for Highways, Coun Don Mackenzie said: “At this stage, there is not a detailed design, simply a preferred line for the road.

The Executive’s approval would open the way for County Council officers and our consultants, WSP, to proceed with detailed designs and to begin formal negotiations with landowners and partners.

“We had strong support for the scheme through the consultations, during which two main concerns were raised.

“These are the need to minimise the impact on local public rights of way, maintaining a cohesive network that is enjoyable to use, and to treat the landscape sympathetically. Meeting these concerns will be among our priorities.”