CULVERT strengthening work on a road beside one of Wharfedale's busiest junctions is set to continue through to autumn.

The scheme, under a section of the A658 Pool Bank New Road downhill from the Dyneley Arms crossroads near Pool-in-Wharfedale, started on May 8 - and was due to be completed in ten weeks.

Leeds City Council, however, has announced that a review of the works has shown that the project will have to be 'significantly extended'.

The work, which includes carrying out essential repairs to the 100 year old water culvert, is now not expected to be completed until the end of September.

That means the road restrictions at the spot, which has been operating as a 30mph, single lane managed by temporary traffic lights, will stay in place.

The road is used by many passengers travelling to and from Leeds Bradford Airport and the council is advising motorists to allow extra time or to choose alternative routes.

Leeds City Council's Executive Member for Regeneration, Transport and Planning, Councillor Richard Lewis, said: "We apologise to anyone inconvenienced by the need to extend these works, but since we have been working on site it has become apparent a change in approach is needed.

"This includes additional foundation strengthening work, so it does mean a few weeks more pain in order to ensure that this culvert and stretch of road is safe and secure for the long term future.

"We are determined to do everything we can to get this work completed as soon as possible and we thank those affected for their patience and understanding while this is carried out."

The additional work has included digging further into the foundations below the culvert than was originally anticipated, and using concrete to strengthen it.

The council says the end result will be 'a culvert and road which will be more durable as well as more resilient to any potential flooding events'.

Leeds Bradford Airport and Jet2 have been informed about the extension of the scheme and they will also be messaging passengers to ensure they are aware.

Residents and councillors have also been informed along with taxi companies, bus operators and local, off-site airport parking services.

The repair was identified as being needed as part of the council’s ongoing assessment of all bridges and culverts across Leeds.

The culvert on the A658 allows a natural stream, carrying water from the surrounding areas, to flow under the road.

For more details about the work visit www.leeds.gov.uk/poolbankculvert .