THE planned closure of the A66 near Darlington this weekend has been cancelled due to a poor weather forecast.

The ringroad between the Morton Palm and Little Burdon roundabouts was due to be closed to traffic from 8pm tonight (Friday) until 6am on Monday, May 20.

The work will be carried out by the Highways Agency to repair the damaged and worn out road surfacing, and prolong the life of the carriageway.

A spokesman said: “The extended closures are required due to the need for a special membrane to be installed within the new surfacing.

“This will reduce the likelihood of surface cracking recurring and consequently reduce the requirements for future maintenance. It would not be possible to resurface the carriageway over individual nights without greatly increasing the duration of the work and the impact on drivers.”