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With the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine dualling project officially moving forward, many property and landowners between Penrith (M6 J40) and Scotch Corner (A1(M) J53) are beginning to feel the real impact of what lies ahead.
On 7 March 2024, the Secretary of State for Transport granted the Development Consent Order (DCO) for this major infrastructure scheme. The project aims to dual around 18 miles of single carriageway, improve junctions, realign certain routes, and enhance parts of the existing dual carriageway. The intention: to create a safer, faster, and more reliable corridor across the North.
Earlier this year, the campaign group Transport Action Network (TAN) launched a legal challenge against the DCO, arguing environmental, carbon, and value-for-money concerns. However, in October 2024, the High Court dismissed the case, confirming that the challenge did not provide grounds to overturn the decision. In other words, the DCO stands, and the A66 dualling is officially on course to proceed.
Following approval, the project’s funding went through a temporary review under the new government’s infrastructure spending review. But in July 2025, the Government confirmed the A66 dualling will go ahead as part of a £92 billion national investment package in road and rail improvements.
While there is still no confirmed start date for full construction, preparatory works are already underway – including archaeological surveys, utility diversions, and the acquisition of affected land by National Highways. The next milestone is the approval of the Final Business Case, which will trigger large-scale construction.
If your land or property lies within or near the affected corridor, you may already have been contacted – or soon will be – about land acquisition, temporary possession, or access rights.
Even at this stage, it’s crucial to understand your rights and entitlements under compulsory purchase law.
You may be entitled to:
With preparatory works accelerating and key approvals approaching, time is of the essence. Early, specialist advice can make a major difference in protecting your position and ensuring full compensation.
Call our team of Compulsory Purchase Experts today to discuss how the A66 dualling project may affect you, and how we can help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
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