The realignment of the A59 at Kex Gill is entering its final construction phase, marking a significant milestone for North Yorkshire’s transport network. This stretch of road, situated between Skipton and Harrogate, has historically suffered from landslips that caused frequent, prolonged closures and forced motorists onto lengthy diversions through local villages.
📌 Key Project Highlights
* Construction of a new 4km road bypass to avoid landslide-prone areas.
* Stabilization of the existing hillside to protect the new infrastructure.
* Installation of advanced drainage systems to manage heavy rainfall.
* Reduction of long-term maintenance costs for the regional road budget.
Securing the A59 against future landslides
Engineers are currently finalizing the structural elements of the new carriageway. The project involves shifting the road from the north side of the valley to the south side, where the geology is significantly more stable. This move addresses the fundamental instability of the Kex Gill slope, which has seen repeated failures during extreme weather events over the past decade.
| Project Detail | Specification |
|---|---|
| Total Investment | £68.8 Million |
| New Road Length | 4 Kilometres |
| Primary Objective | Landslide Prevention |
| Location | A59 Kex Gill |
Final surfacing and traffic management
Work crews are now transitioning to the final surfacing and lining of the route. Once the asphalt layers are complete, the focus will shift to safety barrier installation and final environmental landscaping. North Yorkshire officials expect these final stages to proceed throughout the coming months, barring extreme weather disruptions.
Keane Duncan, the executive member for highways and transportation, has overseen the project’s progression through various geological challenges. The completion of the A59 realignment is expected to stabilize transit times for thousands of daily commuters and freight operators. By removing the threat of sudden closures, the local economy stands to benefit from more predictable logistics and reduced travel costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the A59 Kex Gill realignment necessary, and what is the main change for drivers?
The project addresses the chronic geological instability of the hillside between Harrogate and Skipton. Historically, this stretch was prone to frequent landslips on the north side of the valley, causing prolonged road closures. The realignment shifts a 4km section of the A59 to the south side of the valley, where the ground is significantly more stable, ensuring the route remains open even during extreme weather events.
What current traffic restrictions should motorists expect during this final phase?
As work crews transition to final surfacing and safety barrier installation, drivers may encounter temporary traffic signals or short-term lane closures. To minimize delays, it is recommended to monitor the North Yorkshire Council’s live travel maps and plan for slightly longer journey times between Blubberhouses and Skipton while the final asphalt layers are being laid.
How will the new A59 bypass impact local travel times and regional businesses?
The primary benefit is the elimination of the 6-to-10-mile diversions through local villages that occurred during previous landslips. For freight operators and commuters, this means stabilized transit times and a more reliable East-West connection. Additionally, the new infrastructure includes advanced drainage systems designed to handle heavy rainfall, drastically reducing the need for emergency repairs and taxpayer-funded maintenance.
When is the new A59 road expected to fully open, and where can I find updates?
The project is currently in its final construction phase, with completion expected in the coming months, barring any severe weather disruptions. For the most accurate ‘road open’ date and real-time traffic alerts, residents should follow the North Yorkshire Council highways portal or stay tuned to the latest transport bulletins on hiyastar.co.uk.
Source: North Yorkshire Council
