A CRUMBLING York road which residents claim is "almost impassable" in places is to undergo major improvements.

Wilton Rise, off Holgate Road, has fallen into a state of disrepair because it is not believed to have been repaired for at least 20 years.

It is one of York's 70 unadopted private highways, which is not the responsibility of City of York Council, and residents have never been able to reach agreement after previously being told they must each pay £500 to get it improved.

Now the council has decided to make "one-off" repairs, as the street forms part of its priority cycleway and pedestrian

network.

The proposal is to carry out repairs to the carriageway and footway to make them safe for cyclists and pedestrians.

Resident Mick Watson said he was "delighted" that something was finally being done.

"Although it's only a one-off, it's better than nothing," he said.

"The road is almost impassable in places and is in a terrible state.

"Part of me is still cynical until the work actually starts."

A spokesman for City of York Council said: "Although we are unable to adopt this road, it is a key part of our cycle and pedestrian network and we are proposing a scheme which will bring lasting and considerable benefits for the residents in the area, as well as those passing through on bicycle and on foot."

The length of Wilton Rise to be covered is from Holgate Road to the start of the adopted section to the south of the junction with St Paul's Terrace.

Improvements will be made to the uneven flags and settlement around manholes.

Dropped crossings with tactile pavers are also required to the crossings of Upper St Paul's Terrace, St Paul's Terrace and Cleveland Street along the

adopted length of Wilton Rise.

Work should be completed by April 30.

Ward councillor Dave Evans said: "I'm very pleased that the road is finally being improved, particularly because it is so important to the priority cycleway and pedestrian network.

"It's a vital road that goes right through to the city centre and railway station, so it's important that it is good quality."

Updated: 16:25 Thursday, February 14, 2002