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A campaign group has brought a legal challenge against a decision to dual a key road in northern England.

Transport Action Network (TAN) opposes a decision by the secretary of state for transport to approve the £1.5bn A66 Northern Trans-Pennine scheme.

TAN believes the upgrade to 18 miles of single carriageway between Penrith and Scotch Corner offers "poor" value for money and will harm wildlife.

National Highways said its proposal would provide safer journeys on a route that currently sees high crash rates.

Chris Todd, TAN’s founder, said: "At a time when we are experiencing more flooding due to climate change, it will drive up carbon emissions by 2.7 million tonnes.

"By encouraging more HGVs it will also make the existing parts of the A66 that are already dualled more dangerous."

He added National Highways should consider cheaper and quicker safety measures.

'Heavy congestion'

National Highways said it was not known at this stage what impact the challenge would have should it be successful.

Project director Stewart Jones said: "The A66 is a key route in the north of England and helps connect Cumbria with Durham.

"The route currently suffers from heavy congestion and has a poor collision record.

"We believe our proposals will provide smoother and safer journeys for thousands of commuters, hauliers and drivers who use this vitally important route every day, while also delivering an economic boost to the North.”

The Department for Transport claimed its recently announced long-term plan for drivers would "slam the brakes on anti-car measures".

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