A LONG-lasting new type of tarmac is being used to resurface part of the A64 with the aim of reducing future road closures.

The Ultragrip anti-skid surface has been used on the section near Bramham roundabout as part of a scheme to resurface 97,610sqm of road between the roundabout and Askham Bryan.

Highways England project manager Chris Dunn said: "This new form of resurfacing not only improves safety with the anti-skid surface but lasts longer, reducing the amount of night closures needed to maintain and repair it.

"As part of this scheme we carried out further maintenance work. We renewed 500m of roadside drainage to address local flooding concerns, carried out some bridge maintenance work at Bramham roundabout and we installed new sensors on the weather station near Askham Bryan, which improves our information during severe weather such as the recent Beast from the East. "

Engineering company A-one+ area 12 general manager Brian Statham said: “We were looking for ways to improve safety for drivers especially at busy junctions and on slip roads. Working with our supply partner Tarmac we developed the innovative Ultigrip as a design solution to give tough textured finish and long-term skid resistance.

“Ultigrip requires less maintenance which means fewer closures, it is good for our road workers and our customers as well as creating savings for the taxpayer by reducing whole life costs. And, the improved surface grip makes for a better, safer journey.

“We are pleased that Ultigrip is recognised through a number of industry awarding bodies as being both innovative and efficient and a key outcome of collaborative working.”