National Highways have issued their first comment on the legal challenge to the A66 upgrade the Secretary of State approval of the Development Consent Order (DCO) for the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project on the 7th of March 2024.
Following the decision, there was a legal challenge period which concluded on 18th of April 2024. This period allowed for any challenges to be made by interested parties to the Secretary of State's decision.
As Penrith.Town reported two weeks ago there has been a legal challenge made against the Secretary of State's decision to grant the Development Consent Order for the A66 project by a group opposed to the plans to upgrade the A66 to dual carriageway along currently non dialled sections between Penrith and Scotch corner.
On Friday NationalHighways officially acknowledged the legal challenge saying “At this stage it is too early to say how much of an impact the legal challenge will have on our programme and start of works. However, we have been designing and developing the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project, and, following the DCO announcement in March 2024, we plan to continue with archaeological investigations preparatory works including utilities diversions during 2024. We will be in contact with affected landowners in due course.”
“We are disappointed about the legal challenge as we believe our proposals will provide much needed improved safety and reliability for drivers and businesses that use this vitally important route every day, while also delivering a boost to the regional economy.”
“Once we are in a position to do so, we will provide you a further update.”
On Friday Penrith and The Border MP Dr Neil Hudson said
“I think I speak for everyone locally who is set to benefit from a safer, faster and less congested route when I express my deep and sincere disappointment at this development.”
“In recent weeks we've again tragically witnessed just how dangerous the current road can be.”
“However I very much welcome National Highways will still be pressing ahead with investigations and preparatory work on this project. I obviously cannot comment on the legal proceedings but it is vital we progress the project as quickly as possible.”
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