Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has today, 20 November, raised concerns in the House of Commons about delays and cost overruns on the A59 Kex Gill bypass – a vital east-west route linking Harrogate and Skipton.
The Kex Gill bypass is North Yorkshire Council’s largest highways project, designed to replace a landslip-prone section of the A59 near Blubberhouses. The new alignment will improve resilience, connectivity, and safety, and is scheduled to open in spring 2026 following recent progress on surfacing works.
Speaking during Transport Questions, Julian urged Ministers to engage more closely with North Yorkshire Council to ensure the project remains on track.
In response, the Minister, Simon Lightwood MP, confirmed that while the Department for Transport has provided £56 million towards the scheme, no further funding is available, and any additional costs must be met locally. However, the Department will offer advice to help deliver the project within the agreed funding.
You can watch Julian's question, and the Minister's answer, here.
