A LANDSLIP made worse by recent bad weather has forced the closure of Storiths Lane, near Bolton Abbey.

The road is now expected to be closed for several months while North Yorkshire County Council’s highways teams carries out investigations, surveys, designs and repairs.

Skipton member councillor Robert Heseltine said: “The landslip occurred in February but at the time the road remained open as it was only the fence that suffered any damage.

"However, further erosion due to bad weather has caused the road edge to be exposed and drop away. We have closed the road with the safety of drivers our top priority."

He added:“Unfortunately it is too early to commit to timescales but we will update the public when we know more.

"We recognise that this road is a vital link to a number of communities so please be assured we will get the road reopen as soon as possible.”

The closure is between the 'Laund Oak Tree' and Waterfall Cottage. Access will be granted for cyclists and pedestrians.

A signed diversion is in place in both directions between the junctions of Storiths Lane with Stangs Lane at Barden and the A59 at Hazlewood.

For updates and details of the road closure visit www.northyorks.gov.uk/roadworks-map