Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether officials in his Department have had discussions with (a) Highways England, (b) Darlington Borough Council and (c) North Yorkshire Council on improving safe access for cyclists on the A66 at Blackwell Bridge and Roundabout.

National Highways recognises that improvements are needed in this area to provide safer access for cyclists. In November 2021 cycle route warning signs were installed on both A66 approaches to the Blackwell roundabout. In addition, a scheme is currently being developed to install an off-carriageway pedestrian/cycle route between the Blackwell minor road and the road to Stapleton and a new crossing point over the A66 at the Blackwell roundabout.

National Highways has been engaging with North Yorkshire County Council and Darlington Borough council throughout the development of this scheme and anticipate delivery in 2024.