HC Deb 17 July 1990 vol 176 cc472-3W
Mr. Jopling

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what road improvements are pending between Cumbria and the A1 in the light of the proposed upgrading of the A1; and if he will make it his policy that the upgrading of the A66 will be completed before the A1 upgrading is completed.

Mr. Atkins

On the A66 between Penrith and Scotch Corner there are three improvement schemes planned. Works are expected to begin in September on a dual carriageway scheme between the Bowes bypass, in Durham, and the Cumbria border.

The two other schemes are in preparation. These are between Stainmore and Banksgate and at Temple Sowerby and works are planned to start from mid-1992.

The trans-Pennine study, now being carried out by consultants commissioned by the Department, will consider the need for further improving the road links across the Pennines, including the A66.

As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State explained in his announcement on 3 July 1990, the upgrading of the A1 from London to Tyneside will inescapably be spread over a number of years. Within this period and with the outcome of the trans-Pennine study the future needs for the A66 trunk road will become more defined.