New road finally opens at Kex Gill
A59's been re-routed after landslips
The new stretch of road at Kex Gill in North Yorkshire has opened to traffic today, after longstanding landslip issues on the A59 between Harrogate and Skipton.
North Yorkshire Council’s largest-ever highways project has seen the completion of a 4.2-kilometre realigned route designed to provide safer and more reliable travel.
The previous road had suffered from 15 landslips since 2000, costing over £6 million in repairs and resulting in numerous closures.
Cllr Malcolm Taylor of North Yorkshire Council described the project as "complex "due to its remote location and challenging weather conditions.
However, the new road, which is part of the strategic A59 route, promises major benefits for local communities and offers a vital east-west link across the country.
While the majority of construction work is now complete, some landscaping and road tie-ins remain unfinished, with a 30mph speed limit in effect during these final stages.
The site boasts extensive environmental measures, including the planting of over 12,700 native trees, wildflowers, and habitats to support wildlife.
Additional features of the project include routes for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders.
The A59 is an important connection running across North Yorkshire, recognised by the Government for its strategic significance.