Representation by Warcop Parish Council (Warcop Parish Council)
- Date submitted
- 8 August 2022
- Submitted by
- Parish councils
I represent the Warcop Parish Council, which includes Warcop, Sandford, Bleatarn and part of Coupland Beck. We broadly welcome the plans to dual all remaining single carriageway sections of the A66, and in particular the very dangerous section between Appleby and Brough. It is imperative that the road is built as soon as possible, as we have seen a large number of fatalities and serious injuries in accidents on this section, as well as the ensuing traffic disruption to our narrow village roads. We have been pleased to influence the route alignment so that the new road is built further away from our residential buildings and businesses. Our campaign group lobbied for a more northerly route which 94% of consulted residents supported. However, we accept the need for pragmatism and the recognise the constraints of the MOD's operations and AONB restrictions. We are also pleased to see plans for the creation of an integrated cycle, horse-riding and non-vehicle pathway along the whole of our section. However, we would suggest that some minor adjustments can still be made to improve the route: 1. We feel that the new dual carriageway from Café 66 to Dyke Nook should be built completely to the north of the existing road, thereby avoiding the need to destroy about a mile's worth of existing trees. The new road would therefore be screened by the trees. It is not in the A.O.N.B. area. 2. In order to preserve the existing historic, cultural Brough Hill Fair site for the gypsy and traveller community, we believe the new road could go slightly further north from the east of Warcop to avoid this site, before joining on the agreed alignment. The proposed alternative site is too close to local houses and businesses. 3. As a community, we also feel that additional traffic generated by the new dualled A66 will impact on our village country lanes. A new footpath across the field to the primary school, church and Parish Hall would take cyclists, walkers, children, wheelchair user and prams etc off the dangerous road. 4. We believe that the junction at Langrigg is far too complex and too close to properties and an alternative design could be achieved. A new small link road seems to have appeared since the consultation documents which effectively surrounds a cottage. I look forward to hearing from you.