SAFETY improvement works on a main road into Whitby are due to start at the end of this month, with disruption expected until spring.

The much-anticipated schemes will be implemented at Bagdale and on the A171 at Helredale Road in Whitby.

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North Yorkshire County Council highways teams will undertake footpath repairs on Bagdale Road which will involve replacing stonework and railings, working towards the town centre and the junction with Spring Hill.

It will begin on January 31, lasting one month, during which time the traffic on Bagdale will be controlled using three-way temporary traffic lights when working closer to Chubb Hill.

Once works progress beyond Broomfield Terrace, two-way lights will be used.

Work will also take place on the A171 Helredale Road to convert grass verges into a layby.

It will begin on February 21 lasting for 12-weeks and will require two-way temporary traffic lights.

County Councillor Joe Plant, of the Whitby Streonshalh division, said: “Bagdale and the A171 Helredale Road are main routes into Whitby so it is essential to make them as safe as possible.

“Either of these works on their own would be disruptive, but we feel that making the most of the quieter months before the warmer weather comes around is the best option.

"That’s why we are carrying both of them out at the same time.

“We would like to apologise for the inconvenience it is bound to cause local residents and businesses but we will minimise disruption as much as possible.

"If there are any changes to the schedule we will update the public.”

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