A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project approved by ministers
It's the biggest single investment in the North’s road network in a generation.
Last updated 8th Mar 2024
Plans to upgrade the A66 route between Penrith and Scotch Corner have been approved.
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.”
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.
Stewart Jones, National Highways Project Director for the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project, said:
“We are delighted to have received approval and to be able to give the people of Cumbria, County Durham and North Yorkshire some positive news.
“A lot of hard work has gone into getting us to this position. Now we can push on and deliver this project as efficiently as possible.”
“We will be part of community life for the next few years, so we want to make sure we are giving back. We will be using local companies and employment during our construction work, which will help support the local economy.
“We want to work with local schools, colleges, academies, universities and community groups, encouraging the engineers of the future to consider a career in construction and provide training opportunities.”
Martin Tugwell, Transport for the North’s Chief Executive said:
“This is very welcome news that the people and businesses across Cumbria, Durham, North Yorkshire and the Tees Valley have been calling for over many years. TfN set out the strategic importance of this scheme at its Inquiry and it is good news to see the Secretary of State confirm the Order.
“Duelling the A66 will deliver vital improvements to east-west connectivity in the North. It will remove bottlenecks along this key corridor, make the road safer and more reliable for everyone who uses it, including the high percentage of freight using the route, and connect our towns and cities to Scotland.
“It will be one of the biggest investments in the North’s road network for a generation and we look forward to continuing to work with National Highways as they deliver this very important piece of national infrastructure.”