Transforming the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine to deliver more than just safer journeys

Embedding people, place and planet in road upgrades

Along the A66, many of the existing single carriageway sections repeatedly widen and narrow, with varying speed limits. In addition, the route also features numerous junctions which create merge conflicts between local and strategic traffic. With heavy good vehicles (HGVs) accounting for 25% of total traffic, and significant numbers of slow-moving agricultural vehicles present, traffic congestion is a frequent issue resulting in longer journey times.

To provide a consistent standard and reduce incidents and delays, our design duals the remaining single carriageway sections. If an accident or breakdown occurs, the additional lane capacity will allow lanes to be closed to keep traffic moving. We also integrated grade-separated junctions with side roads, providing alternative routes for local and agricultural traffic. To optimise traffic flow further, the national speed limit will be introduced along the full route.

Upgrading a total of nine sections, our solution includes more than 110 modified and new structures and over 40 drainage attenuation ponds tailored to the specific issues of each section. To add real value, we used our United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) Mapping Tool throughout the design process. This strategy informed daily engineering design decisions to ensure alignment between project objectives and UNSDGs.

Aside from improved journeys for drivers, the upgraded route will provide a better travel experience for cyclists and pedestrians, as well as couriers and tourists. Stimulating a shift to active travel, the project has created more than 30 kms of cycleways and walking paths. The additional lane capacity will help hauliers deliver shipments on time while giving tourists improved, faster and safer access to well-known destinations such as the Lake District.

Although connectivity and safety were its main drivers, the scheme will have wider benefits for local communities. It will facilitate access to essential services such as healthcare and education as well as employment areas. As commuters spend less time travelling, they can spend more time with family and friends, achieving a better work-life balance. The decrease in traffic congestion will also reduce noise levels, creating a calmer environment for people living and working near the route.

The A66 demonstrates how transport schemes can have a positive effect on quality of life by improving access to services, promoting active travel and encouraging economic growth. The scheme invested £6.4 million into local communities and businesses via various social value initiatives during the DCO preparation. This project is an example of how transport can deliver on good health and wellbeing, economic growth, sustainability and climate action.  

Ensuring the voice of the local community is heard

Creating a suitable solution to upgrade the A66 was just the first step of the transformation. To obtain permission to acquire land and commence construction works, NH sought consent from the UK Government through a DCO. These applications are a key step in the development of projects and place heavy emphasis on consultation and stakeholder engagement.

The consultation with the public included three formal sessions plus an additional event on specific changes. We led engagement with the five host local authorities, statutory environmental bodies, focus groups, community groups, business groups and other organisations such as parish councils, interacting with over 260 landowners and 6000 parties with land interests.

Comprising more than 380 documents (34,200 pages), we drafted the DCO application as well as a further 900 documents during the Examination in Public. After 50 hours of hearings to explain the proposals to the Examining Authority, the DCO was approved and NH gained permission to construct the works to upgrade the A66. 

Protecting species along the route

The A66 passes through the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Embedding decarbonisation and environmental protection in the design solution were key objectives and client requirements. The proposed upgrade minimises impacts on both flora and fauna, enhancing these where possible, and preserves the natural rural heritage as well as other protected areas and assets. To support the recovery of nature, more than 10% biodiversity net gain (BNG) will be achieved for grassland, hedgerows and woodland, going beyond current national legislation.

In addition, we suggested a contract model to NH to incentivise contractors to reduce impact on the environment by decreasing the Specimen Design’s embodied carbon by 30%. Owing to our close relationship with local suppliers, we also introduced NH to a manufacturer of low carbon materials, who provide carbon-negative aggregates for use in concrete and road pavements. Our holistic approach is helping NH enhance environmental outcomes while supporting local businesses and economy.

Leveraging digital and technology to boost engagement

Digital and technology played a key role in designing the scheme and accelerating its delivery after its selection into the ‘Project Speed’ Pathfinder programme. As the first two years were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of remote working techniques was key to drive the project forward. For example, we created a FUSE platform to share project data in GIS format with different teams, unlocking greater coordination and collaboration.

To offer an inclusive public consultation, we built a Virtual Engage Consultation Room to make information available in a more convenient web-based experience. Also part of these events, we used our tool SoundLab to give residents and businesses the opportunity to hear accurate noise simulations and understand future noise levels.