Earlier today Penrith and The Border MP, Dr Neil Hudson attended the launch of the A66 consultation, on the site of the former Llama Karma Kafe, where he was joined by The Minister for Roads, Buses and Places, Baroness Vere, local council and business leaders. The consultation runs until 11.59pm on Saturday 6th November. Residents can have their say at the following link: https://highwaysengland.co.uk/our-work/a66-northern-trans-pennine/.
Whilst supporting the dualling of the A66, Dr Hudson is clear that local concerns must be heeded and recognises the impact on communities such as Warcop and Kirkby Thore.
The planned upgrade will involve upgrading single carriageway sections of road to dual carriageway standard and making improvements to the junctions along the route with the aim of enhancing safety, reducing congestion and improve regional and national connectivity.
Commenting after the launch Dr Hudson said:
“This consultation lasts for 6 weeks and it is vital that local people feed through their views about the project. It was great to have an opportunity to relay concerns of local residents to Baroness Vere who is also keen for the consultation to be as informative as possible. As part of my ‘Better Connectivity’ campaign I want to ensure that transport links are improved for those who live in Cumbria but also for those transporting freight and holidaymakers who help to support our large visitor economy.
The proposed improvements to the A66 will affect many constituents in Penrith and The Border and the more contributions from local residents to the consultation, the better. We have to make sure that we get this project right.
Baroness Vere, Minister for Roads said:
“Upgrading the A66 is a project at the heart of our plans to build back better and level up the North by improving infrastructure and boosting connections across the region. This consultation is a great opportunity for people and businesses to help shape the future of this project so it works for everyone.”
