THE SCHEDULE for roadworks that could have caused problems for Otley Show has been changed.

North Yorkshire County Council (NYCC) had originally announced it would be closing the A59 at Kex Gill for ‘up to seven days’ from Monday, May 13.

That would have seen the closure - with traffic being diverted through Otley and Ilkley - overlap with Otley Show on Saturday, May 18.

NYCC was alerted to the clash and the traffic problems it would cause,: and has now announced that the work will be finished before the show.

In a reply to Otley and Yeadon ward councillors, a council spokesman said: “We have been in discussion with our works contractor and can confirm that, through working longer hours and amending the works schedule slightly, they are fairly confident they can get the Kex Gill road open by late Friday evening.

“They aim to remove all the traffic management on Friday evening and reopen the road in time for the Otley Show on Saturday.

“They will then return on Sunday to complete the works but this activity will be carried out using alternative traffic management to enable the road to remain open.

“We apologise for the inconvenience and disruption which will inevitably be caused by this road closure during the weekdays - however, we hope the fact that the road will be open on Saturday, May 18 will come as welcome news.

“Unfortunately, there is never a good time to close a road.”

Councillor Sandy Lay (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said: “Clearly we are pleased that North Yorkshire have listened to our concerns and we hope everyone has a great day at Otley Show.”