Step forward for city congestion scheme

THE NEXT phase of a major upgrade for one of Yorkshire’s most congested roads has been approved as part of a £38m project.

The scheme will see seven roundabouts altered to be given wider entrances and exits along York’s outer ring road, which was once dubbed ‘Yorkshire’s M25’.

The upgrade for the Monks Cross roundabout, agreed yesterday by York Council’s executive member for transport and planning, is the second to be agreed.

Coun Peter Dew, inset, noting the results of a four-week public consultation which ran throughout May, highlighted feedback from residents and business.

He also gave the green light for officers to start preparation works and arrangements for construction to start with the appointment of the council’s civil engineering delivery team. “I’m delighted to approve the next step in the York Outer Ring Road upgrade scheme,” he said. “This is the next stepping stone in our drive to improve seven key roundabouts along the outer ring road and help to reduce journey times for residents, businesses and visitors. “I’d also like to thank people for their understanding and co-operation during the works at Wetherby Road roundabout which are on schedule to be completed in early 2019.” The improvements programme is being funded through the West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund and the Leeds City Region Growth Deal – a £1bn package of Government investment.