A59 Kex Gill: Road finally reopens in North Yorkshire after decades of disruption caused by landslips

A new section of road on the A59 has opened to motorists after decades of landslip disruption between Harrogate and Skipton.

The £82m project was previously expected to open in 2025, but adverse weather has delayed construction.

“This is a moment that we have been aiming for throughout such a complex and detailed highways project,” said Councillor Malcolm Taylor, executive member for highways and transportation.

The 4.2km route is designed to better connect communities across North Yorkshire. Since 2000, the previous A59 road has suffered 15 landslips and cost £6m in repairs and closures.

The road provides a vital east-west connection in North Yorkshire, linking Harrogate and Skipton and running across the North of England between junction 31 of the M6 and junction 47 of the A1(M).

Local businesses and residents have previously expressed their concerns over landslip disruptions, with the route closed in 2025 following a landslip on New Year’s Day.

Councillor Malcolm Taylor praised the “major benefits” of the new road for communities in the county.

“The scheme is the largest we have undertaken as a council, and there have been significant challenges to create the new road in such a remote location in often extremely poor weather conditions,” he said.

“But 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.”

More than 12,700 trees have already been planted across the site, and new routes have been added for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The project is due to complete further landscaping and tie-ins with the existing road system.

Until these remaining works are completed, there will be a temporary 30mph speed restriction, with two of its three lanes open to motorists.