New Harrogate bypass moves one step closer

It is hoped a new western bypass will ease congestion in Harrogate.

A steering group will look at options for a relief road to ease congestion and improve east-west connectivity.The scheme, which forms part of wider plans to upgrade the A59 around Harrogate, has been listed as a top priority in the Local Transport Plan, which was approved by North Yorkshire County Council’s Executive on Tuesday.Coun Don Mackenzie, the authority’s executive member for Highways, said: “It certainly needs improving around Harrogate with a relief road or a bypass. I am pleased to say we are putting together a steering group of local members from North Yorkshire and Harrogate Borough Council to look at the options.“It is very good news for the town. I think we can now start to make some really great progress with the priorities we have set out.”The plan, which sets out transport strategies for the next 30 years, has been published as the county continues to work to reopen the A59 between Harrogate and Skipton.Efforts are under way to stabilise the hillside at Kex Gill following winter storms which have left it in danger of collapsing on to the road. The route is expected to remain closed until the end of this month. The cost to re-route the A59 in the long term is estimated at more than Â£30 million.

For more on the Local Transport Plan click here.