“Due to good weather, careful planning and the hard work of our highways teams, we're slightly ahead of schedule.”

A major route to Sheffield that closed for roadworks will reopen early, the council says.

The Snake Pass will reopen to traffic from 6am on Saturday, June 20, Derbyshire County Council, said in a surprise announcement.

It said: “Good news! We're temporarily re-opening the A57 Snake Pass between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir this weekend only!

“Due to good weather, careful planning and the hard work of our highways teams, we're slightly ahead of schedule.

“The road will be open from 6am on Saturday, June 20, until 9am on Monday, June 22, when it will close once again to allow work to recommence.

“As always, thanks for your continued patience and understanding whilst these important works continue!”

The Snake Pass closed on Monday, June 15, for 18 days of landslip investigation works set to last until Friday, July 3.

It is a major route between Sheffield and Manchester which sees about 30,000 vehicles a week.

It currently has two sets of lights, where the road is down to one lane, and a 7.5 tonne weight limit.

Snake Pass to reopen early as council makes surprise roadworks announcement