Yorkshire Water are currently undertaking repair works to a collapsed sewer underneath Shaw Lane. Last week, they notified local residents that this would mean having to close off the end of Shaw Lane, where it meets Grove Lane, for about four weeks.
However, they have now discovered a new complication, which means that the work is now also affecting traffic on Grove Lane. In an update sent out yesterday they write:
Works began yesterday morning to carry out repairs to the collapsed sewer on Shaw Lane.
Unfortunately when undertaking the initial excavations the contractors discovered a large void underneath the carriageway which extended into/under the east bound lane of Grove Lane ( i.e. towards Meanwood).
Obviously this has changed things somewhat on site and as of this morning [i.e. Wednesday morning] the works have now encroached onto Grove Lane, narrowing it to below the required carriageway widths allowed to maintain two way traffic.
A priority system is now in place and seems to be working ok – however this type of traffic management will not be appropriate when the traffic flows increase during peak times.
Between 15.30-18.30 tonight [i.e. Wednesday] a trial will be undertaken using Stop/Go boards to try and manage traffic around the work site safely without causing major disruption
If the trial proves successful then this method will be used every morning and evening until the road is safe enough to allow two way traffic to flow unobstructed.
On the flip side, if it is clear that Stop/Go boards cannot manage traffic safely then we will have no choice but to close Grove Lane – one way (eastbound only).
This would mean that there will be no left or right turn into Grove Lane from Otley Road A660 but traffic traveling from Meanwood would be unaffected.
Yorkshire Water’s contractors will continue to work 7 days a week however it is now expected that these works will not be completed until mid/late June.
I hope this explains the difficult situation we find ourselves in and I will be sure to keep you all updated with any developments.
We will post any further information which they provide here.
