Drivers face Peak District diversions as major Hope Valley route closes
People heading into the Peak District will face diversions when a major Hope Valley route closes for four days from March 30.
The A623 will be closed at Middleton Dale from 8am to 5pm each day while private landowners along the stretch remove trees showing signs of ash dieback.
The road closure will be in place between Farnsley Lane and the junction with B6521 The Dale, Eyam, with signed diversions in place when the road is closed via the A619, A6020, A6 and back to the A623.
Contractors are removing up to 200 ash trees at risk of falling onto the road and the work has been timed so it can be completed under a single road closure to reduce disruption for residents and road users.
Councillor Charlotte Hill, of Derbyshire County Council’s highways department, and Transport, said the council welcomes cooperation from private landowners to ensure disruption was kept to a “minimum”.
Councillor Carol Wood, of the council’s environment department, added: “Ash dieback is affecting trees right across the county, regardless of who owns the land.
“Private landowners are reminded that trees on their property are their responsibility and they’re advised to monitor ash trees on their land and seek professional advice if they notice signs of ash dieback disease.”