A MAJOR route from Leeds to Scarborough was closed to traffic last weekend after a burst water main created a large hole in the carriageway.

The damage means the A64 through Rillington, the main road taken by many people visiting the east coast from Leeds and York, will be closed throughout this week.

The hole appeared on Sunday at the village crossroads and was immediately cordoned off.

Work to repaid the water main was carried out as a matter of urgency and attention has now been turned to repair the carriageway to allow vehicular access to resume.

A spokesperson for Yorkshire Water said: “The burst main, which has now been repaired, caused significant damage to the road. Our teams are working hard to minimise disruption while reinstating the road and we expect it to reopen later this week."

Currently the A64 is closed in both directions between the B1248 near Scagglethorpe, Norton-on-Derwent and the B1249 near Willerby, Staxton with diversions in place.

North Yorkshire County Councillor Janet Sanderson, who represents Rillington, said she had been informed of the damage to the road and the knock-on effect of the consequences of re-routing traffic through other areas.

She said: "I was shocked to see the extent of the damage on the A64 yesterday. As our main trunk road to the coast this will be a major inconvenience to residents and communities alike. There will also be a knock on effect on our smaller surrounding villages as traffic is diverted to alternative routes. I have already received reports about speeding and frustrated drivers trying to make up for delays. Residents should report any incidents to the police. I feel very sorry for the impact on businesses however it was heartening to see reports from The Coach and Horses pulling together as this emergency situation developed. I understand Yorkshire Water was on site yesterday to start repair work, but as yet we do not have a completion date. I do hope every effort will be taken to ensure a speedy repair, good levels of communication and a practical approach to diversion routes."

It is expected an announcement will be made by the local authority's Highways department when the road is ready to be reopened once repairs are made and checks have been carried out.

In the meantime commuters and those aiming to travel to the east coast are asked to allow extra time for their journeys during the rest of the week.