Snake Pass to close for nearly three weeks

Drivers are being warned to plan ahead as the A57 Snake Pass is set to close for almost three weeks while engineers carry out crucial investigations into one of the route's most significant landslip sites.

Derbyshire County Council has announced that the road will be closed to all traffic between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir from Monday 15th June until Friday 3rd July. 

The closure will allow specialist ground investigation work to take place at the Doctor's Gate landslip, with engineers using two drilling rigs to assess the extent and causes of ground movement at the site. The findings will help inform plans for a long-term repair solution. 

Snake Pass is one of the county's most important transport routes, carrying around 30,000 vehicles each week between Manchester and Sheffield. However, its steep gradients, sharp bends and challenging geology have contributed to a number of landslips in recent years. 

The Doctor's Gate site is one of four remaining landslip locations requiring further investigation. Initial surveys have already been completed at Alport, Gillot Hey and Wood Cottage, with additional work needed before permanent solutions can be developed. 

While the road is closed, the county council will also begin the first phase of a major road safety improvement programme funded through £7.6 million from the Government's Safer Roads Fund. 

The works will include the installation of new safety barriers designed to offer greater protection to motorcyclists, along with upgrades to road markings. 

A range of maintenance activities will also be undertaken during the closure as part of the council's "fence to fence" approach, which aims to complete as much work as possible while the road is shut. 

These works will include pothole and patching repairs, drainage improvements, litter picking, sign cleaning and vegetation cutting to improve visibility. 

The maintenance programme forms part of Derbyshire County Council's wider £70 million investment in the county's road network. 

Councillor Charlotte Hill, Derbyshire County Council's 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." 

A signed diversion route will be in place via the A6013, A6187, B6049, A623, A6, A6015, A624 and A57. 

Once the investigation work is completed, the road will reopen under temporary traffic lights while further safety barrier improvements continue throughout the summer.