Plans to upgrade the A66 route between Penrith and Scotch Corner were today (7 March 2024) given the go-ahead by the Secretary of State for Transport.
The A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project, which is a key part of the government’s £24 billion investment into roads, will transform journeys along the A66 in the North of England.
A DfT spokesperson said: “This Government backs drivers which is why we’re investing over £24bn into our roads to reduce congestion, create jobs and grow the economy.
“We also have our long-term Plan for Drivers to slam the brakes on anti-car measures and keep the country moving.”
Now that the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project Development Consent Order (DCO) has been approved, National Highways can look ahead to the construction phase. Preparatory archaeological works and utilities diversions are currently taking place along the A66.
Once the Development Consent Order (DCO) decision challenge period has concluded in April 2024, the next step will be for Government to review and approve the Full Business Case.
This project – the biggest single investment in the North’s road network in a generation – will help transform the remaining single carriageway sections along the 50-mile stretch of the A66 between Cumbria, County Durham and North Yorkshire, offering a better experience for drivers.
(Picture – Dreamstime/Gary Hide)
