Government funding initiates upgrade plans for A59 Kex Gill.

Motorists, businesses, and local communities will gain from a new route replacing the A59 at Kex Gill, thanks to a government investment announced on 23 February.

Roads Minister Richard Holden met with officials from North Yorkshire County Council and Transport for the North today to discuss this crucial upgrade. This initiative is part of the government’s pledge to improve road network connectivity, allocating over £59.9 million in funding to local authorities throughout the region for highways maintenance, pothole repairs, and local transportation initiatives.

The area around the A59 at Kex Gill has faced issues with landslips, leading to expensive and unplanned road closures. To tackle this challenge, £56 million from the government will be utilized to establish a new route replacing this section of the A59. The total project cost is £68 million, with North Yorkshire County Council covering the remaining expenses.

Roads Minister Richard Holden stated:

It is essential to make journeys safer, quicker, and more reliable for drivers to reduce travel times and support economic growth.

The new route at Kex Gill will assist businesses across northern England and nearby towns and villages by promoting economic growth, enhancing connectivity, and eliminating disruptive road closures.

Investing in projects like this for long-term enhancements demonstrates the government’s commitment to leveling up transport links with sustainable, long-term solutions.

Recognized as a key route in the region, this road offers motorists a crucial east-west connection between Harrogate and Skipton.

Cllr Keane Duncan, North Yorkshire County Council’s executive member for highways and transport, commented:

We are pleased to receive the final approval from the government to commence construction. The re-alignment of Kex Gill will undoubtedly become one of the council’s most ambitious highways projects.

The A59 provides a significant east-west connection in North Yorkshire and holds national importance. We are dedicated to completing the scheme as swiftly and cost-effectively as possible.

The council has collaborated closely with local communities to create a plan that minimizes environmental impact and considers those living in nearby towns and villages.

Construction is expected to begin later this year, with the new scheme anticipated to open in 2025.