Final resurfacing works are set to complete a multi-million improvement scheme on the iconic A592, Kirkstone Pass.
From Monday 7 October until 5pm on Friday 18 October, Kirkstone Pass will be under a full road closure to introduce a new road surface from its junction of The Struggle, Ambleside, in a southerly direction to Greengate, Troutbeck.
The works will put the finishing touches on this complex and challenging project, designed to make the pass safer and more resilient.
The impacts of 14 adverse weather events and one severe snowstorm last winter, saw the pass closed to all vehicles during the worst of the weather which made it impossible for contractors to fully complete the scheme on the south-side of the route. Crews will return next week to complete the remaining resurfacing works that will draw this part of the scheme to a close.
During the full closure, all vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists are not permitted to access the area and diversion routes will be in place. The Council is requesting that people do not attempt to access the work site. As part of the commitment to maintaining a secure and safe environment, barriers will be placed on the site to ensure the safety of the public.
Councillor Peter Thornton, Westmorland and Furness Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Assets, said: “This resurfacing marks the final step in what has been a truly complex and essential improvement scheme.
“This route is vital, not only for local communities and businesses, but also for the thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the beauty of the Lake District. The extreme weather we experienced last winter certainly tested our resilience, but we’re now nearing completion, and the improvements made will ensure that this road is safer and more reliable for years to come.
“I want to extend my thanks to everyone affected, for their patience and cooperation whilst we’ve delivered this scheme and I look forward to seeing it completed.”
The scheme has been undertaken in a challenging location, with the route being one of the highest roads in the Lake District climbing to an altitude of nearly 1,500 feet. It often suffers the impacts of severe weather and, due to narrow and restricted access, much of the work has required road closures, which have been carefully scheduled to minimise disruption and planned to avoid the busiest holiday periods.
Kirkstone Pass is in the heart of the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and great care is being taken to ensure the current safety improvement works includes new infrastructure that complements the stunning surroundings.
Wooden-clad environment sensitive crash barriers have been installed as a part of the works. The barriers on Kirkstone Pass are the first of their type on a major road in Cumbria.
The full project has also included the building of new drainage and culverts, resurfacing, new lay-bys and signage and installing ‘catchpits’ to collect scree washed off the fells.
For more information on works delivered so far visit westmorlandandfurness.gov.uk.