The new A59 route at Kex Gill has opened to traffic following the largest highways project ever undertaken by North Yorkshire Council.
The majority of the new 4.2-kilometre road opened today (Tuesday 25th August), providing a more reliable connection between Harrogate and Skipton.
It replaces a section of the A59 which has suffered 15 landslips since 2000, resulting in repeated closures and more than £6million in repair costs.
Councillor Malcolm Taylor, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transportation, said:
“This is a moment that we have been aiming for throughout such a complex and detailed highways project.
“It will bring major benefits for communities in the county as well as across the North of England as it is such an important route.
“The opening of the new road is testament to the dedication, tenacity and hard work of everyone involved in ensuring this project has become a reality.”
Most of the construction work has now been completed, although connections to the existing road network and landscaping work are still to be finished.
A temporary 30mph speed limit will remain in place while the remaining work is carried out.
Two of the road’s three lanes are currently available, with the third designed as a crawler lane for slow-moving traffic.
More than 12,700 native trees have been planted across the site, alongside wildflowers, wildlife habitats and balancing ponds.
The scheme also includes new routes for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, as well as four kilometres of natural stone walls.
The A59 provides a major east-to-west link between the A1(M) and M6, connecting communities and businesses across North Yorkshire and northern England.
Nominations open for 2026 Small Business Awards across Ilkley and Keighley
Call for Yorkshire Water to return to public ownership after 335 pollution incidents
Skipton husband-and-wife nursing team launch new therapy services
Details announced for Skipton's Remembrance Sunday parade
Who will take over Alpamare? Questions remain after Flamingo Land departure
Toby Carvery in Keighley to close for refurbishment ahead of Christmas
Skipton charity launches Christmas gift appeal for children in need
Road closures announced for Keighley Christmas lights switch-on
Skipton's Sackville Street features in Tesco Christmas advert
BID delighted with Pop-Up Pumpkin Patch success in Skipton
Skipton's Footbridge closes as replacement work begins
Libraries offer light therapy kits to boost mood this winter
£3.4m bailout saved council-owned Brierley Homes from collapse, say councillors
Yorkshire Garden Centres raises more than £106,000 for children's hospice
Yorkshire Water boss to step down after lowest possible environmental rating
£65million Leeds Bradford Airport railway station described as ‘critical’ for region
Police appeal to identify person following criminal damage near Skipton
Skipton and Ripon MP criticises Budget over lack of support for rural communities
Skipton pub reopens following refurbishment with new dining room and menu
Skipton travel agency named best in the North at national industry awards
