Drivers are reminded that a section of the A595 in West Cumbria will be closed this weekend for essential repairs.
The first phase of the £16 million scheme to improve drainage for the major road near Moresby has been completed and today, June 30, it will close at 8pm between the Distington roundabout and Pelican garage for the second phase to be carried out.
It is estimated the section will be closed for 10 weeks – this is week seven – from 8pm on Fridays until 5am on Monday.
Cumberland Council is warning drivers that delays are likely while work is carried out.
This Sunday sees Distington Vintage Rally take place at Hayes Castle Farm so roads around the area are likely to be extremely busy.
What diversions are in place?
The A5086 through Frizington, Cleator and Cleator Moor will be used as the formal diversion route. It is suitable for all traffic.
To allow traffic to flow freely in both directions, parking restrictions on the A5086 will be in effect from 8am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays of the A595 weekend closures.
Parking restrictions will not apply to blue badge holders and a five-minute loading time will also be permitted.
Temporary car parking locations will be available to residents over the weekend.
Letters informing the affected properties along the A5086 have been sent out, the authority said.
There are also three alternative local diversions only to be used by vehicles under 7.5 tonnes.
What if I live or work in the area?
Access to local villages, including Parton, Lowca and Low Moresby, will be restricted to allow contractors space to install a new drainage system and rebuild the carriageway.
Properties affected by these restrictions have been sent letters notifying them of the restrictions. The letters included a set of permits that should be displayed in the front window of vehicles.
Permits allow access to and from properties through a set of marshalled access points.
If travelling in a north or southbound direction along the A595, signed local diversion routes off the A road will direct people to their destination.
Access to public and recreational events within these areas will be allowed without a permit.
Registered taxis and delivery vehicles will also be able to pick up and drop off within the restricted areas but cannot used these as a through route.
What about buses through Bransty, Parton and Lowca?
Parton Parish Council has arranged free buses though the villages over the weekend. Here is the route:
How can I get more vehicle access permits?
If you require additional permits, these can be collected from Parton Village Hall every Friday, from 10am to noon, until the scheme’s completion. You can also request permits from the site office at Low Moresby, off Howgate roundabout, weekdays from 7am to 3pm. Proof of address will be required – the permit letters will be considered proof of address.
