Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
23
Feb 2023
Minister 'open' to inflation funding discussions for A59 Kex Gill
Ministers are open to discussions over funding should a major realignment for the A59 at Kex Gill hit further inflationary pressures.
Richard Holden, the minister for roads, told the Stray Ferret that he believed the government had struck a “sensible deal” with North Yorkshire County Council for the £69 million scheme.
Mr Holden visited the Kex Gill site along with officials from the county council this morning.
It comes as the Department for Transport gave the final go-ahead for the project today, which will see the road rerouted.
The move comes as the project has been beset by delays and mounting costs due to inflation.
However, work now look sets to start in April on the scheme — three months after the council’s most recent anticipated start date.
When asked if the government would step in should the project face rising costs, Mr Holden said:
Read more:
- Council warns of ‘high risks’ as Kex Gill cost soars to £69m
- Council sets aside £11m for A59 Kex Gill contingency funding
- Government gives final go-ahead for £69m Kex Gill reroute to start
The scheme has faced numerous delays and, following tender returns, the estimated cost of the scheme increased by £7.2 million to £68.8 million, which the council attributed to inflation affecting constructions costs.
The project will be funded by a £56.1 million grant from the Department for Transport, with the council covering the rest from its reserves.
A further £11 million has been factored into the budget to cover any issues with ground conditions or bad weather.
The Kex Gill realignment site, which is set for construction.
Irish civil engineering and construction firm John Sisk & Son (Holdings) Ltd has been appointed to build the road.
Speaking following the announcement, Cllr Keane Duncan, executive councillor for highways, said:
The A59 at Kex Gill, near Blubberhouses, is the main route between Harrogate and Skipton. Since 2000, the route has been closed 12 times following landslips.
The estimated completion date for the scheme is May 2025.
Pictured above (left to right) council leader Cllr Carl Les, minister for roads Richard Holden, and Cllr Keane Duncan, executive councillor for highways.
0