Cat and Fiddle reopened early after safety works

One of the Peak District's best-known roads has reopened after being closed to traffic since July.

The A54, known as the Cat and Fiddle, was due to be closed until late October for maintenance and stabilisation work, but has reopened three weeks ahead of schedule, Derbyshire County Council said.

The work was the first phase of a £3m repair project to a 1.7km (one-mile) stretch of the route between the A53 Leek Road and the A537 at the Derbyshire county boundary.

A further 11-week closure is scheduled for spring next year.

The route, which along with the A537 runs from Buxton in Derbyshire to Macclesfield in Cheshire, is known for its scenic views, steep inclines, and tight bends.

The county council said when finished, the work would improve the road's surface, drainage and safety, particularly during periods of wet weather and poor visibility.

A full closure was required between a hill known as The Terret and the A537 for phase one, to allow major excavations across the width of the road.

The council said the road had reopened ahead of schedule due to "careful planning, favourable weather and excellent progress by teams working on site".

Highways lead councillor Charlotte Hill said: "We know how important the Cat and Fiddle route is to residents, businesses and people travelling between Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire, so we are very pleased to be reopening it three weeks earlier than planned.

"By delivering multiple upgrades all at the same time, we have made long-term improvements that will last years to come. This means, we won't have to revisit and disrupt residents to carry out planned maintenance work for a long time."

The exact dates for phase two have not been confirmed but it will focus on the remaining stretch of the A54 to its junction with the A53.

This work will involve reinforcing earth banks to prevent soil and rocks falling on to the road, and the extension and repair of safety barriers and bike guards.

A signed diversion will be in place using the A53, A523, A537 and the A54.

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