A CALL has been made to see more detailed plans on the dualling of the A66 in Richmondshire.

A North-East firm of chartered surveyors and land specialists is calling for urgent clarity over the latest plans following completion of a public consultation.

David Coulson, a senior surveyor with County Durham-based Vickers and Barrass, was commenting after more than 2,000 people attended public consultation events with others giving their views online and by post on proposed changes to the A66.

Highways England is planning to fully dual sections of the road between Penrith and Scotch Corner, which include six single carriageway sections, which total 18 miles of the complete 50-mile route.

Now that the latest round of consultations has finished, Mr Coulson, who represents clients along the proposed route whose businesses will be affected by the plans, wants clarity and reassurance for local farmers and landowners.

In particularly, those who may suffer any loss of income and earnings caused by the scheme and are considering compensation claims.

While dualling will also bring improved benefits to journey time reliability and safety, he wants to see greater consideration for access for residents and businesses as part of plans to connect nearby villages and towns.

An announcement on the preferred route will be made next spring – accompanied by a report on this year’s consultation and further statutory consultation and planning stages.

He said: “The picture remains unclear and local livelihoods are at stake. So, it’s important that any disturbance and impact on businesses are kept to a minimum as Highways England prepares its final plans.

“Farmers and landowners impacted by the scheme should be looking at how they will be affected by any lost income and interruptions to their businesses in addition to a claim if land and property is acquired. If necessary, they should seek professional guidance."