A proposed £250 million Darlington bypass is under review.
External auditors commissioned by the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) are exploring the cost, economic benefits and environmental considerations of the scheme.
A proposal for the long-awaited bypass was approved by TVCA in January 2024 but has faced delays and financial uncertainty after the election of the Labour government. Around £1 billion of transport funding for the Tees Valley, which includes the link road, was eventually confirmed by Labour in June.
The scheme has been tabled to provide a new strategic link better connecting the A66 to the A1(M) to the north of Darlington and ease heavy traffic on the A1150 and A167.
TVCA said: “Traffic is currently using the A1150 and A167 through the north of Darlington, but these routes are unsuitable for the volume and type of traffic using them. This has significantly worsened rush hour congestion on the routes around the north of Darlington, with a knock-on effect on the rest of the town.”
The two areas previously identified for the road to be built were located near Brafferton or through Skerningham. However, a previously completed business case is now deemed to be outdated, with a new one taking place.
“The £250 million cost estimate is based on the current route alignment, but this will be refined as the next phase of development work is progressed,” TVCA added.
Praising the scheme last year, Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said it will improve air quality in the town centre and divert trucks away from residential and commuter roads.
He added: “This fantastic scheme has been kicking about for decades without ever being delivered – and I am going to put that right.
“As we attract huge investment to the area, grow our Freeport and increase our freight network, we need to protect our town centres and this new road will ease congestion and make travelling much easier for people living and working in Darlington.”
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO OUR CROWDFUNDER
HELP US BECOME STRONGER SO THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TO DELIVER POWERFUL CITIZEN JOURNALISM!
