Despite ongoing legal challenges, there’s optimism for a £1.5bn upgrade of the A66 corridor.
- The project aims to dual a significant 18-mile portion of the route to enhance safety and traffic flow.
- Transport Action Network raises environmental and safety concerns regarding increased traffic and emissions.
- The RHA supports the project, citing its economic importance and impact on UK supply chains.
- Both sides are currently engaging with National Highways and relevant authorities to address these issues.
The proposed £1.5bn upgrade of the A66 involves the dual carriageway expansion of an 18-mile segment between Penrith and Scotch Corner, a crucial route known for its accident history. Proponents argue this development aims to mitigate such incidents by enhancing road safety and improving traffic flow across this strategic corridor.
Transport Action Network (TAN), however, has opposed the upgrade, raising significant concerns about the consequential environmental impact and road safety risks. Chris Todd, founder and director of TAN, contends that the project will result in a substantial increase in carbon emissions, estimated at 2.7 million tonnes, and exacerbate existing dangers on already dualled sections of the road. He argues that these factors lead to a flawed decision in the development consent order granted by the secretary of state, suggesting an alternative focus on cost-effective safety measures.
In defence of the project, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) highlights the economic benefits, underscoring how freight transport significantly contributes to the UK economy. James Barwise, RHA’s policy lead for infrastructure, emphasises the necessity of this upgrade for maintaining efficient supply chains between Cumbria and North Yorkshire, noting the detrimental effects that delays can have on businesses, from lost working time to shipment challenges.
The RHA remains positive about the project’s progression, despite TAN’s legal challenge. There is a continuous dialogue with National Highways and the Planning Inspectorate to resolve these concerns, focusing on the broader objective of reducing congestion and promoting safe, efficient journeys.
A particularly pressing issue related to this road is the unlit sections, which have been linked to fatal accidents, prompting a coroner’s warning to National Highways and Cumbria County Council to take immediate corrective measures.
The future of the A66 upgrade hangs in balance as stakeholders continue dialogues to reconcile economic needs with environmental and safety concerns.
