FEARS have been raised major new roadworks could lead to rat-running by motorists to try and avoid delays.

A start date has now been confirmed for an extensive culvert replacement scheme near Pool-in-Wharfedale.

The works – on an under-road tunnel on the busy A658 Pool Bank New Road, 350 metres downhill from the Dyneley Arms junction – is due to begin on September 21.

It is expected to take 15 weeks to complete, and will be carried out by Colas Ltd for Leeds City Council.

Two-way traffic lights will be in operation during the scheme, and will be manually operated between 7am and 7pm, Monday to Friday, in an attempt to minimise traffic disruption.

A temporary 30mph speed limit will also be in place from the Dyneley Arms through the works, and a signed diversion route will be in place during all the closures.

But Councillor Barry Anderson (Con, Adel and Wharfedale) stressed that measures will be needed to combat rat-running during the scheme.

He said: "I did raise a number of concerns with officers about rat-running through both lower Old Pool Bank, upper Old Pool Bank, parts of Bramhope and other locations.

"Officers could only advise that at this stage the mitigation measures to be introduced had not been finalised.

"They are aware, in the strongest terms, of my concerns and those of residents who have contacted me already."

A senior engineer from Leeds City Council's bridges section said: "Pedestrian access through the works will generally be maintained, although there may be a short delay on occasion to ensure their safety.

"We understand these essential safety works will cause disruption, but I can assure you we will do all we can to minimise this."

Three 9pm to 5am overnight road closures will take place to allow the installation, movement and removal of temporary safety barriers.

The provisional dates for those are September 21, November 2 and December 7.

The council says a further two Saturday overnight closures will also be needed to install the new, precast concrete, culvert units. They will run from 8pm to 10am, and have been planned for October 17 and November 21.

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