A66 Northern Trans-Pennine Project – upcoming road closures

April 30, 2026

2 min read

Following publication of the third Roads Investment Strategy (RIS) on 26 March 2026, National Highways has confirmed the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine Project (NTP) scheme has been committed to by the government and is due to start main construction by the end of 2026.

Advanced Works – May 2026

National Highways is continuing with advanced works and will soon be extending the current speed limit area in place and installing average speed cameras on the A66 between M6 junction 40 and Temple Sowerby. National Highways is bringing forward this installation in response to customer concerns over the existing 40mph speed limit not being adhered to by all drivers.

To install the cameras safely, it will need to close the A66, both east and westbound carriageways overnight (12midnight-5am) between Kemplay roundabout and Temple Sowerby from 5-9 May 2026 inclusive (five nights).

Also on Friday 8 May 2026, National Highways will need to close one lane of the A66 westbound carriageway only (8pm-5am) between Kemplay roundabout to M6 J40. Emergency access will be retained throughout the closure but for all other traffic there will be a fully signed diversion in place, and details are available here.

Due to the existing HGV restrictions through Kirkby Stephen, the diversion for HGVs will involve using the M6, A69, and A1. From the M6 Junction 40 A1 Scotch Corner, this is a 185 km diversion, so signage will be in place before these points to ensure we inform HGV drivers in a timely manner.

Drivers are advised to plan ahead by reviewing routes and schedules in advance, along with allowing additional time during closure periods. For additional information, National Highways will continue to update its Project webpage.

For any questions regarding these works, please contact National Highways.