SELBY MP John Grogan says he is "extremely annoyed" that a much-anticipated village bypass has been torpedoed because of spiralling costs.

The Press reported yesterday that long-suffering Osgodby residents will not get the promised £3.2 million bypass they have spent years fighting for.

In fact, the Highways Agency will carry out road improvements costing only £300,000 at the junction of the A63 and A19, Barlby Crossroads.

In February 2005, after a public inquiry, the Government approved the bypass scheme. But blaming soaring costs, the Highways Agency has now dropped it.

Mr Grogan said he would meet the agency's regional director to discuss if there was any way forward.

He said: "A lot of public money went into a public inquiry only two years ago. Although the measures the agency is proposing will be welcomed by many, there is still a big feeling of disappointment.

"I recognise that costs have gone up, but that doesn't remove the need for the bypass. Even if it means a longer wait, I cannot see the logic of cutting it altogether."

District councillor Kay McSherry, said the decision left her "very, very disappointed" - but also welcomed the junction improvements.

She said: "That junction is absolutely dreadful and the changes will make a big difference.

"But we are very, very disappointed we are not going to get a bypass. We fought hard for it - and the people of Osgodby deserved it.

"It now looks to me as if it is never going to happen, and it's all down to money. The first estimate was achievable, but the price rocketed. When it got above £5 million, it was clearly a no-go."

Highways Agency official Roger Wantling admitted the loss of the bypass was a "disappointment".

But he said: "Barlby Crossroads is a busy junction with a poor accident record and right turns have long been a major contributory factor to accidents. By banning three out of four right turns and preventing traffic crossing over the junction both east and west bound, the risk of accidents will be significantly reduced.

"These measures will also prevent traffic backing up behind vehicles attempting to turn right and may help to ease traffic flows through Osgodby village.

"The traffic calming measures through Osgodby will also improve safety and the environment for local residents.

"These have yet to be finalised and we will be holding a public exhibition within the next few months so that local residents can come and have their say."

Approved list of roadworks

APPROVED changes at the A63/A19 Barlby Crossroads and in Osgodby:

  • A new layout to prevent right turns from three of the four roads into the junction. Local traffic wishing to turn right from Selby into Osgodby will still be able to do so
  • The new layout will also prevent vehicles crossing over the junction eastbound into Osgodby village and westbound into Barlby
  • Traffic calming measures in Osgodby village.