A CONTROVERSIAL road safety scheme is to be completed this weekend.

The £100,000 project in Thirsk is aimed at improving safety for pedestrians.

It has seen a speed table installed at the Finkle Street entrance to the Market Place, and a 20mph limit introduced.

Work started on September 12 and has caused a series of diversions and road closures.

Business leaders have said the project has cost them thousands of pounds in lost trade, with shoppers staying away while the work has been carried out.

North Yorkshire County councillor Peter Sowray, executive member for environmental services, has apologised for the disruption.

He said: "The county council is sorry for any inconvenience caused to the businesses and residents of Thirsk while these improvements have been carried out.

"The works have been completed as quickly and efficiently as possible, but the complexity of the changes has inevitably led to some disruption to normal town centre activities.

"The final scheme will, however, enhance the historic town centre and improve safety for all users, particularly pedestrians."