RESIDENTS have expressed concern over the potential impact of further road closures and diversions in the wake of a landslip.

Work to repair a serious landslip close to the A67 in Carlbury, near Darlington, will see some roads closed around the area for up to six months.

A consultation meeting held at High Coniscliffe church hall yesterday (Saturday, February 22) was attended by local councillors, residents and representatives from Darlington Borough Council and Northumbrian Water.

Concerns were raised over the impact of the road closures and diversions on businesses, pedestrians and the disabled and the limited schedule of a free shuttle bus that will be provided in place of regular public transport.

David Winstanley, assistant director of transport for Darlington Borough Council, told residents that there was no choice regarding significant periods of road closure as the work was essential.

During a question and answer session hosted by Mr Winstanley and Councillors Gerald Lee and Paul Crudass and Northumbrian Water’s Gareth Anderson, Mr Winstanley also suggested developing ‘good neighbour schemes’ to share driving and help people access local services in the absence of regular public transport.

A second consultation event will take place on Monday, March 3 at the next meeting of the Gainford and Langton Parish Council, held in Gainford Village Hall from 7pm.

For full details of scheduled repairs, road closures, affected public transport and access, visit darlington.gov.uk/environment/carlbury.