Work on the multi-million pound highways scheme in North Yorkshire is entering the final stages of completion.
The Kex Gill project is the most ambitious highways scheme ever undertaken by North Yorkshire Council and is extremely complex due to the nature of the ground.
The new section of the A59 will replace the existing road, where there have been 15 landslips since 2000, causing significant disruption for the public and costing more than £6 million to repair.
It had been hoped the new road could open early summer, but due to the exceptionally wet months from December through to February, it is now scheduled to open in mid-summer.
Despite this, the scheme, which is taking place on the key east-west route near Blubberhouses, to the west of Harrogate, is now entering its final stages.
Stonework on major structures has continued to ensure the new road fits in with the landscape. Scaffolding is now being removed as these elements near completion.
Landscaping works are progressing well across the route, including drystone walling and hydroseeding of embankments with a mix of wildflowers and grass.
Drainage installation is ongoing, while surfacing contractors are due to return this month.
At Hall Lane, removal of the existing bridge is underway, alongside works to tie in the new road at both ends. Drainage and preparation for surfacing is also taking place at the western end.
Maintenance at Blubberhouses Bridge also continues, including waterproofing to minimise future disruption.
Realignment works at Church Hill, designed to reduce the incline and improve the junction layout, remain on course to be completed by the end of August.
Construction of the new bridleway linking Fewston Reservoir car park to North Moor Road is also progressing well.
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, said:
“It is extremely encouraging to see such strong progress across the Kex Gill site as we move into the final stages of this long-awaited scheme.
“The benefits of the new route will be felt for decades to come, providing a safer, more reliable connection for residents, businesses and visitors.
“While the exceptionally wet winter has meant a slight adjustment to the opening date, the team has worked incredibly hard to keep the programme progressing.
“We are now approaching the finish line, and the quality of the work being delivered is clear to see.”
As the scheme nears completion, traffic management will be required to allow the final elements of construction to be carried out safely and efficiently.
North Moor Road will reopen under three-way traffic lights from mid-May until mid-June. Two-way traffic lights will also remain in place at Blubberhouses Bridge while stabilisation and waterproofing works continue.
From early July, the junction of Church Hill with the A59 will need to close for about eight weeks to enable construction of the new junction layout. During this period, a signed diversion will operate via the B6451, Farnley Lane and Newell Carr Road.
Towards the end of the scheme, overnight closures of the A59 will also be required to complete the final surfacing at both tie in points, with dates to be confirmed.
As well as the construction of the new carriageway, the project encompasses new bridleways and footpaths, four kilometres of natural stone walls, two balancing ponds, and an extensive environmental scheme to enrich local habitats in this national landscape, including planting 12,000 trees and installing several bird and barn owl boxes.
A total of eight new culverts are also being installed to ensure water flows under the new road safely. Some of these include mammal shelves and ledges to allow animals such as badgers, otters and other wildlife to pass through or nest.
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