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11
Feb 2021
Snow forces extended closure of Whinney Lane
The seven-month closure of Whinney Lane in Pannal Ash is likely to be extended, with the county council blaming the recent spell of cold weather.
North Yorkshire County Council closed the road in July 2020 due to the construction of two site access points for the Castle Hill Farm housing development as well as a new roundabout.
Local residents had hoped the road would be back open by February 28 — but Mike Newall, who lives in Whinney Lane, said he has been told by site foreman that the road could now be closed until Easter "at the earliest" due to problems bringing in materials.
He added:
Read more:
- Residents mobilise against Whinney Lane developments
- Whinney Lane lights ‘like Leeds Bradford Airport runway’
A spokesperson for North Yorkshire County Council confirmed a delay is likely and said residents will soon be informed of exact timescales:
An unpopular closure
The extended closure of Whinney Lane has been unpopular with residents and businesses in Pannal Ash. The landlord of local pub the Squinting Cat told the Stray Ferret last summer that it could even put the pub out of business due to it being more difficult for customers to drive there.
To improve access for walkers, a temporary footpath was created through a nearby field. However it faced criticism from residents who said the lights were "as bright as Leeds Bradford Airport runway".
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