Drilling rigs to be used for Snake Pass investigation

More details have been shared about ground investigation work due to be carried out on Derbyshire's Snake Pass over the next three weeks.

The windy scenic route has been repeatedly shut by landslips over the past few years, so the county council is working to try to find a permanent solution.

From Monday 15 June to Friday 3 July, the road will be closed between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir, with two drilling rigs brought in to identify the scope and causes of ground movement at the site.

It is hoped this will then help to identify what repairs need to be carried out.

Initial ground surveys have already been undertaken at three other points along the route - Alport, Gillot Hey and Wood Cottage - but it was determined further investigation work was needed to devise a long-term fix.

Derbyshire County Council said road safety work would also be carried out during the three-week closure, including pothole repairs, vegetation cutting, sign cleaning and drainage work.

A signed diversion route will be in place.

Councillor Charlotte Hill, cabinet member for highways, said: "This work is an important step forward in securing the long-term future of Snake Pass.

"We know how vital this route is for residents, businesses and visitors, and we are committed to finding a solution to the landslip issues that have affected it for several years.

"Unfortunately, there is no simple solution. By carrying out these detailed investigations now, we are building the evidence needed to develop a permanent, long-term plan for fixing the road once and for all alongside our partners in the East Midlands Combined County Authority and the government.

"We apologise for any inconvenience, but doing this work now will hopefully reduce future disruption and create a far more resilient route in the years ahead."

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