Plans to carry out extensive repairs to bridges on the M6 in Cumbria will be reviewed, after residents warned the works would cause severe disruption.
National Highways told ITV that it will open a public consultation on the project and will try to find ways to reduce the impact on locals. The eight bridges over the Lune Gorge near Tebay are due to be repaired between 2027 and 2031.
The bridges were built in the 1960s, and National Highways said repairs are essential to keep drivers safe.
The works would cover a six-mile stretch of the M6 between junctions 37 and 38 at Tebay which would be partially closed. Local activists started a campaign called ‘Keep Junction 38 Open.’
More than 1,700 people signed a petition expressing concerns over the impact of closing the junction. One campaigner previously told ITV News Border the closure would force her to drive an extra 250 miles per week on the school run, eventually costing £3000 in fuel.
A spokesperson for National Highways said:
“Having engaged and listened to feedback, we will undertake a full review of how this important project will be delivered. This will be followed by a public consultation.
“We recognise the importance of working with local communities and businesses to explore opportunities that could help reduce disruption while construction work takes place.”
The public consultation will begin in winter 2026 and last a minimum of six weeks, with locals, businesses and the wider public invited to share their thoughts.
(Picture: Mapillary)
