Start date revealed for £500,000 Whitby junction improvements
The works will form part of the £2.3 million Whitby harbourside public realm project
The first phase of a multi-million-pound scheme to improve Whitby’s public spaces and road network will begin on Monday, September 1 — starting with a £500,000 safety upgrade to the junction of the A171 New Bridge and Spital Bridge.
Part of the £2.3 million Whitby Harbourside Public Realm Project, funded by the Whitby Town Deal, the works aim to make the area around the swing bridge safer and more accessible for residents and visitors.
The 12-week programme will see:
New traffic lights installed
Alterations to islands and kerb lines
Resurfacing of the junction
Four new clearly signed pedestrian crossings, including one that allows pedestrians to cross the A171 in a single movement
Listening to residents
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for highways and transport, Cllr Malcolm Taylor, said:
“This major upgrade is much needed as the new signals will make life much easier for those emerging from the side roads, and will improve the crossing places for pedestrians.
We listened to public feedback from the consultation, which showed significant public support for the plans, with most feedback coming from Whitby residents.”
The consultation in late 2023 saw 64% of respondents back the proposals.
Cllr Neil Swannick, who represents Whitby Streonshalh division, added:
“I strongly support the major improvements to this key junction. Although the works will inevitably cause short term disruption, there will be huge benefits from the crossing points, and they will provide a safer route for the many students who make their way to Whitby School.”
Most construction will take place 7am–7pm, with evening works between 7pm–2am in the first week, and extended hours in the second and final week.