MOTORISTS who use the Great North Road through North Yorkshire are being warned to expect severe delays from this weekend.

As part of a £1.3m project to resurface the one-mile stretch of the A1 between Hotly Grange and Leeming Bar, the road will be reduced to one lane in each direction.

The restriction will last for 24 hours a day and is expected to continue for four weeks. Speed restrictions and contraflow will also be in place during different phases of the work.

At this time of year about 50,000 vehicles a day are expected to use the affected stretch, which is being resurfaced to give motorists a smoother and safer ride.

The new surface is also said to reduce noise pollution.

Project manager Shaun Cullumbine said efforts were being made to minimise disruption by working at night and some 10,000 leaflets had been distributed to warn the public of the delays.

However, he urged motorists to avoid the area if possible and to consider using alternative routes, such as the A19 and A690.

During the work a number of side roads and local crossings over the A1 will be closed at various times. Diversion signs will be displayed at the appropriate time and place.