A MAJOR York road is to close for 11 days to pave the way for a massive new housing scheme.

Huntington Road, near to the former Sessions printworks - soon to become the Royal Forest development - is scheduled to shut next Monday and remain closed until April 17.

Kerry Tinker, of Darwin Close, Huntington, complained in a letter to The Press that this would cause inconvenience, including the loss of the Number 5 and 13 bus service. "Public transport is vital for many to get to work, school and other amenities," she said.

City of York Council said the number 5 and number 13 buses would be diverted, with the likely diversion route likely to be along Haxby Road, past the Nestle factory and Yearsely Pool.

A Ben Bailey Homes spokeswoman said that in order to make a foul water sewer connection, install new services and create a new road entrance into Royal Forest, it would be necessary to close part of Huntington Road.

“We will endeavour to keep access open for the residents throughout the duration of these works, and access to and from Alexander Avenue will be maintained at all times," she added.