THE A59 at Kex Gill between Skipton and Harrogate could re-open to single lane traffic only in about three weeks.

Work to repair the road, which was closed on May 30 after a large crack appeared in the surface, got underway on Monday.

It is hoped that the road will be opened partially in three weeks time, or less, with temporary traffic lights, and in time for the Great Yorkshire Show, which is due to start on July 10.

However, it is likely that the road will have to be closed again to make permanent repairs - but after consultation with businesses in the area.

North Yorkshire County Council’s highways team is currently discussing a permanent solution with specialist geotechnical consultants following coring investigations.

The council says certain elements of the repair work are required regardless of the final design solution, so these will be carried out immediately.

They will primarily include reinforcing the existing retaining wall.

A council spokesman said: "It is unclear at this point exactly how long these initial works will take, but estimates suggest the work could be completed in three weeks. The interim benefit of the work could be to facilitate the opening of the A59 to single-line traffic under traffic light control, but the target will be to try to deliver that as quickly as possible."

The spokesman added: "As the initial phase of construction is carried out, work will move forward with the design of the whole solution so that the road can be opened to two-way traffic. Once we know exactly what the permanent repairs will entail and how long they will take, discussions will be held with local businesses and the community to consider the best time to make these repairs. The road is likely to need to close fully to carry out the permanent repairs."