Road Closure Between West Yorkshire Towns Prolonged into New Year, Motorists Cautioned

The closure of a significant route linking two West Yorkshire market towns, necessitated by urgent repairs to a compromised sewer system, is now set to extend into the new year, according to warnings issued to drivers. The A646 Halifax Road, connecting Hebden Bridge and Todmorden, has been inaccessible in both directions at its intersection with Stony Lane, located in Charlestown, since December 16. A representative from Yorkshire Water and Calderdale Council stated that this section of the road will now remain shut until January 6, a revision from the initial projection of December 24. “Unfortunately, the repair is very complex, and while we have been undertaking work, we have found a number of further complexities,” they said. The spokesperson indicated that additional damage beyond initial estimates was uncovered within the council-owned culvert, along with a previously undocumented council-owned surface water sewer. Furthermore, more work is required on the already damaged sewer. Despite assurances from Calderdale Council and Yorkshire Water that they are “working closely to minimise disruption as much as possible,” the spokesperson confirmed that the road would not reopen as scheduled on Christmas Eve. “Teams will be working on-site 07:00 to 20:00 GMT daily, but will not be working on Christmas Day and Boxing Day to reduce disruption to residents living close to the repair,” they added. “Further Yorkshire Water work will be required in the future, but this will be done under two-way traffic lights.” A shuttle bus service has been implemented in the vicinity to alleviate inconvenience for nearby residents, though the diversion is still anticipated to cause ongoing disruption. “Please consider your route before you travel and adhere to the official diversion. Thank you for your patience while we work.”