Preparatory work for the long-awaited A66 Northern Trans-Pennine upgrade is continuing, with overnight vegetation removal taking place between Kemplay Bank roundabout and Brougham.
National Highways is carrying out the work as part of ongoing preparations for the major scheme, which remains subject to final government funding approval expected in March.
Over the next week, contractors will clear trees and shrubs to the east of Kemplay Bank roundabout, between the A66 and the A686. The work is being carried out overnight from 8pm to 6am, running from Monday 16 February 2026 to Wednesday 25 February 2026.
While the work is taking place, overnight lane closures will be in operation on the A66 eastbound. Temporary traffic lights will also be in use overnight on the A686 on the evenings of 23 and 24 February.
The vegetation clearance marks a visible change to the local landscape as the long-planned improvements move closer to construction. Once the main upgrade begins, Kemplay Bank roundabout will be replaced with a new underpass arrangement.
Under the plans, the existing roundabout and surrounding trees will be fully removed. The A66 will run through a cutting beneath a new roundabout, which will carry the A6 and provide a junction onto the A686, along with slip roads connecting to the A66.
The current overnight works represent the first significant step on site as the scheme awaits final funding confirmation.
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