The Department for Transport has provided an update on a timetable for the £1.3bn A66 dualling project, According to DfT, National Highways is looking to start construction by the end of 2026.
The project, which will see the final single-carriageway stretches of the A66 dualled between Scotch Corner and Penrith, was given the go-aheard in July last year, although campaigners, MPs, councillors, and members of the public have questioned when a full timetable for the dualling scheme will be revealed, says the Northern Echo.
However, it appears their fears have been allayed as DfT has said it has “confirmed our commitment to this scheme, and we expect work to begin in the period of five years from 2026/27 to 2030/31 inclusive”.
It added that “National Highways is working to commence construction by the end of 2026”.
A spokesperson from the DfT said:
“More detail will be provided in due course, including later this year when National Highways publishes its Delivery Plan, expected this summer. These improvements will strengthen road safety, cut journey times and support businesses and freight across the North.
Campaigners and local MPs hailed the approval as a “pivotal moment” for communities across North Yorkshire, County Durham and Cumbria, where residents and businesses have long called for safety improvements and better connectivity.
When complete, the 50-mile corridor will provide a continuous dual-carriageway between the M6 and A1(M), reducing journey times by up to 12 minutes and offering greater reliability.
(Picture: Mapillary)
