INVESTIGATION and design work ahead of repairs to the closed section of the A19 near Chapel Haddlesey is nearing a conclusion.

The process has been delayed by both the slow dissipation of water following the floods in February, and subsequently the Covid-19 pandemic.

The road sits on a causeway that runs over five culverts. The floods eroded and undermined the bottom for the causeway’s embankments, but more critically the ground radar has established that there are numerous voids within the structure throughout its length of more than one kilometre.

David Bowe, Corporate Director, Business and Environmental Services at North Yorkshire County Council, said: “Construction is expected to take between six and eight months. However, we are seeking to minimise this. As soon as we have a programme, we will inform the public.”