A RAWDON road has re-opened today after days of traffic chaos caused by a collapsed sewer.

The A658 Apperley Lane has been closed in both directions since a deep sinkhole opened up on Saturday following the sewer collapse between the B6152 Micklefield Lane and A65 New Road Side.

Urgent repair work was expected to take up to two weeks - but Yorkshire Water said it had progressed faster than anticipated and the road was now re-opened.

The news will be welcomed by motorists who have described the road closure as a "nightmare."

Motorists have faced delays and disruption since the appearance of the hole, which is said to be up to 15m deep.

A Yorkshire Water spokesperson said: "We have repaired the road quicker than we anticipated and confirm that Apperley Lane is now open.

"We apologise for the traffic delays whilst we carried out the road repairs.

"We do need to return in the New Year to repair the sewer, which is about 14 metres below ground, and unfortunately will have to close the road again to make the repair safely.

"We will be in a position to communicate our plans pro-actively and will do our best to minimise traffic disruption and to keep the local community and road users informed."

Writing on his website after the road was closed Otley and Yeadon councillor Colin Campbell said: "A section of a sewer running under the road has collapsed which has opened up a 15m deep hole in the road. In order to repair the sewer and ensure the safety of road users Yorkshire Water have closed the road with the permission of the local highways department.