DRIVERS using a busy North Yorkshire route can expect better safety and more reliable journeys thanks to improvements starting this month – but the roads will be closed first.

Essential resurfacing will be carried out on a 3.2 mile stretch of the A19 Tontine to Trenholme in Teesside.

The work, on the northbound and southbound carriageways, is vital because the current surface is coming to the end of its natural life

The northbound carriageway will be closed overnight from this Sunday, August 9, until August 23.

During this time, the northbound carriageway of the A19 will be closed from 8pm to 6am to traffic between the A19/A172 interchange at Tontine and Green Lane at Trenholme Bar.

The southbound carriageway will be shut overnight from September 27 to November 9.

Road markings, litter picking and signage will also be renewed. There will not be any closures during the August bank holiday period.

A 50mph daytime speed limit will be in place for temporary surfaces.

Highways England project manager Michael Morgan said:

“These improvements will create safer and smoother journeys for drivers using this stretch of the A19. By carrying out these repairs now, it will also reduce disruption in the future because there will be less need for regular maintenance.

“We have worked closely with North Yorkshire County Council to ensure road users can follow a well-established and clearly-signed diversion. I would like to thank drivers for their understanding and patience while we undertake these essential repairs.”