Plans have progressed to prevent drivers from being stuck in water on a road that has experienced significant flooding issues, with intentions to put up signage by March 2025.

The A684 at Morton-on-Swale, between Northallerton and Bedale, has been the subject of concern for residents and drivers for years, with the road regularly closed in winter by flooding.

Currently, warning signs have to be put up manually, and drivers don’t know the road is blocked until they reach the floods.

The installation of electronic signage and safety measures have been explored by councillors over the last 18 months, with the plans taking a step forward on Wednesday at the North Yorkshire Council Richmond Area Committee.

The A684 at Morton-on-Swale and the temporary signageThe A684 at Morton-on-Swale and the temporary signage (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) During the meeting, councillors were asked to consider a list of projects that require funding, including a £40,000 contribution to the £101,600 scheme for the A684 at Morton-on-Swale. The rest of the cost will be met through match funding.

The proposals were backed unanimously by councillors present, who branded automated signage on the A684 as “much needed” and “vital”.

Chair of the meeting, Cllr Yvonne Peacock, who covers the Upper Dales division, noted that similar technology in Wensleydale has worked well. “It has made a huge difference for drivers and locals around the area,” Cllr Peacock said.

The A684 at Morton-on-Swale has been the subject of concern for residents and drivers for yearsThe A684 at Morton-on-Swale has been the subject of concern for residents and drivers for years (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) “One of the best transport systems we have invested in. The best part is that the signs are electronic, saving time for people who would have had to put out signs manually.

“It prevents incidents with vehicles in floodwater, and it’s a no-brainer to fund it.”

Councillors questioned the long-term impact of flooding on the A684 at Morton bridge, calling on the Environment Agency to investigate a viable solution – and to pay towards funding the signs.

Cars and a HGV stuck in the A684 at Morton-on-SwaleCars and a HGV stuck in the A684 at Morton-on-Swale (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) Jayne Charlton, interim head of highway operation and area manager at the council, told councillors that there was “no solution to the flooding” in sight but noted that the Environment Agency would be looking for match funding.

The scheme will now passed on to the community development director at the council, before the executive committee make a final decision.

However, the project must be complete by March 2025, due to how the signage will be paid for from the council’s development fund.