The A59 at Kex Gill between Harrogate and Skipton has been closed due to significant movement of the bank above the road. North Yorkshire County Council moved very quickly and closed the road on Tuesday afternoon (05 January) after significant movement in the bank. The stretch of road runs across very high ground between even higher moorland between Skipton and Harrogate and has in the past been affected by landslips in bad weather. In 2011 the County Council undertook to strengthen the banks and resurface part of the road during a five week road closure.
Drivers should be aware that the closure has led to a significant diversion.
Julian Smith MP said: 'I was concerned to hear about the closure and I will continue to monitor the situation on the A59 and support NYCC. I understand that the closure may prove to be a considerable inconvenience to many people, however, ensuring the safety of all road users is a matter of absolute priority and I support the council in their decision.'