A66: Scotch Corner to Penrith dualling project update

Despite the Chancellor announcing £3.5bn of investment to upgrade the TransPennine rail route and £15bn for public transport projects in England’s city regions during the review, the A66 project between Scotch Corner in North Yorkshire and Penrith in Cumbria didn't get a direct mention.

Work on the upgrade was due to start this year after being approved by the previous Conservative government led by Rishi Sunak. 

The A66 from Scotch Corner to Penrith (Image: HIGHWAYS ENGLAND) However, the proposed £1.3 billion dualling project of the remaining single-carriageway sections was halted by the new government as part of a review of major infrastructure projects.

MPs, councillors and members of the public were hoping that the A66 scheme could get a mention and get the green light in today's review.

While the Chancellor didn't release any further details on the A66 project, the Treasury did issue an update after today's announcement, saying the Department for Transport (DfT) will release information "in due course".

A spokesperson for the Treasury said: "The Department for Transport will set out their long-term plan for the Strategic Road Network through the third Road Investment Strategy.

The A66 just after Scotch Corner (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT) "Further details on individual schemes like the A66 will be provided by the Department for Transport in due course."

Richmond and Northallerton MP Rishi Sunak has expressed his disappointment that the go-ahead for the upgrading of the vital A66 trans-Pennine road was not included in today’s Spending Review statement.

Mr Sunak said: “The upgrading of the remaining single carriageway sections of this strategic route is vital from safety and economic perspectives.

“The upgrade – which is shovel-ready – would save lives and boost the economy of the North of England.

“The needs of business must be met and the fears of the communities who live alongside and have to use the dangerous single-carriageway sections alleviated.”

Read more: 

• Rishi Sunak calls for A66 upgrade to be given green light

• A1(M) and A66(M) see increase in breakdowns last year

Cumbrian MP Tim Farron, Liberal Democrat member for Westmorland and Lonsdale, has also expressed his frustration at the scheme still not getting the go-ahead.

Mr Farron said: "I’m deeply disappointed and frustrated that the Chancellor has delayed making a decision on the future of the vital A66 upgrade.

“Local people were promised that a decision would be made today but they've been badly let down.

“This scheme is critical for the north's economy, for east-west connectivity, and for saving lives.

“I will keep up the pressure for ministers to approve this massively important project.”