SUTTON Bank on the A170 connecting Hambleton with the North York Moors is to close for a week.
From Monday, September 9, the section of road on the steep bank between Helmsley and Thirsk will undergo essential annual maintenance work.
During the closure, the rock face will be inspected to ensure the route remains structurally safe in the long term.
Osgodby Lane, south of the A170, will also be closed at its junction with the A170.
This means that there will be no access to or from the A170 for Osgodby Lane residents.
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Access to homes on Sutton Bank will be maintained whenever possible.
However, due to the nature of the works there may be times when access will be restricted.
A diversion route will be signposted along the caravan route through Ampleforth and Coxwold for the duration of the closure.
Sutton Bank is notorious for its steep gradient and hairpin bend Picture: Google
North Yorkshire County Councillor Don Mackenzie, executive member for highways, said: “Every effort will be made to ensure the work is completed as soon as possible and that any disruption is kept to a minimum.
"We would like to take this opportunity to apologise for any inconvenience and would request your co-operation to help ensure an efficiently and safely executed project.”
Councillor Gareth Dadd, who represents the Thirsk division, said: “Sutton Bank is a key strategic route so these annual works are vital to ensure its long term future.
"I would urge drivers to comply with any instructions issued by the traffic management operatives and to take extra care while within the works area.”
Sutton Bank is a notoriously precarious road for heavier vehicles to navigate and despite the warning signs prohibiting caravans from attempting to scale the hill, the bank is a hotspot for blockages.
Residents in nearby Sutton Under Whitestonecliffe have been campaigning for years to stop HGV's using the bank because of dozens of blockages on the steep one in four gradient sections of the road. Any motorists who require any special access during the works period should contact the County Council on 01609-780780. For further information visit
northyorks.gov.uk
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