Traffic was reduced to one-way on a section of Skipton Road in Harrogate this morning as roadworks got underway to build a roundabout and access road for Tesco.

The road was blocked at the New Park roundabout for traffic heading west in the direction of Oak Beck Retail Park. Vehicles were able to travel in the opposite direction.

Traffic flowed freely in the New Park area at rush hour, although it is lighter than usual during the school holidays.

There has been some confusion over the length of the works.

According to North Yorkshire Council, the roadworks will last eight weeks but signs say work is due to last 10 weeks.

The Stray Ferret understands the Traffic Regulation Orders last 10 weeks, but work is expected to last for eight weeks. 

After four weeks, the one-way system will be reversed so westbound traffic will be able to head from New Park towards Oak Beck Retail Park, but vehicles will be unable to travel in the opposite direction.

Killinghall concerns

There was a noticeable increase in traffic this morning in Killinghall, where westbound vehicles are being diverted along Ripon Road and then down Otley Road.

Residents are concerned about whether the notorious junction of Ripon Road and Otley Road can cope with the extra traffic — particularly of heavy goods vehicles — caused by the diversion.

Temporary traffic lights due to be installed at the junction were not in place this morning and some diverted lorries struggled to turn left on to Otley Road.

Grainbeck Lane, which is being used to avoid the official diversion, has seen a significant increase in traffic.

The bus stop at the Killinghall Tesco is due to be temporarily relocated.

Tesco received planning permission in February 2023 to build a store, petrol station and 209-space car park.

Work began in 2024 but was delayed when main contractor ISG went into administration. Tesco then submitted new plans for a greener store.