A66 Widening Scheme is Approved
The £1.6 billion A66 scheme has finally been given the go-ahead by the Government.
Completing dualling of the A66 will increase capacity, improving journey times and connectivity from Yorkshire and the Humber to the M6 and Penrith, Carlisle and the Lake District and improving access from Scotch Corner and the A1, the Government said.
It called the A66 a vital regional, national and international economic route, and its dualling would also help boost tourism.
It added: “It will significantly improve reliability and shave up to 12 minutes off journeys.
“Freight connections will be significantly improved, as 25% of the current traffic on the road is made up of HGVs, more than twice the national average for a road of this kind.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “Transport is the backbone of our economy, which is why we are giving them the record funding boost they need, putting taxpayer’s money where it matters most and making every day journeys easier.
“We’re forging ahead with the vital new transport infrastructure Britain needs, and improving what we’ve already got, to deliver a new era of renewal and opportunity.”
Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland & Lonsdale, said: “I’m absolutely over the moon that the Government has finally approved vital plans to upgrade the A66.
“These huge improvements are long overdue, and will be essential to reducing congestion, boosting our economy, and saving lives.
“I’m so grateful to the incredible support we’ve had from local people who have helped us to win this campaign. I also want to pay tribute to the many people and organisations who have fought for this vital upgrade over many, many years.”
Jonathan Brook, Liberal Democrat leader of Westmorland and Furness Council, added: “The A66 is one of our most important transport links across Westmorland and Furness.
“But for too long we’ve seen traffic regularly back up to the Kemplay Bank roundabout at Penrith, causing huge frustration for residents and visitors.
“And too often we see heartbreaking serious and fatal accidents happen on the stretch from Penrith to Brough.
“That’s why Westmorland and Furness Council have proudly backed this project and it’s why it was in our Lib Dem council manifesto back in 2022 to support it.
“Today’s news is incredibly positive and I’m grateful to everyone who has put pressure on the Government to reach the right decision.”
Markus Campbell-Savours, MP for Penrith & Solway, added: “It’s great news in terms of both safety and improving the economy in the North of England.
“This is a vital project that has quite rightly survived the spending review.
“I look forward to seeing the much-needed junction improvements which will make a massive difference for residents and businesses in and around Penrith.”