Monday 13 October – Friday 17 October 2025, 8pm–6am, between Scotch Corner and Bowes (both directions)

This is to inform you of essential overnight closures of the A66 between Scotch Corner and Bowes, scheduled to take place from Monday 13 to Friday 17 October 2025, between 8pm and 6am each night.

These closures are required to safely remove a large number of ash trees suffering from ash dieback disease, a condition caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. A comprehensive survey carried out over the summer identified over 1,300 ash trees between Scotch Corner and the Cumbrian border along the A66 that are in an advanced state of decay. Many of these trees have become structurally unsound and now present a direct risk to the safety of road users and adjacent residential properties.

While we have already removed as many affected trees as possible using lane closures and work from adjoining land, we have now reached a critical point where full overnight closures are the only safe and practical method for completing the felling.

It is important to emphasise that:

• Only diseased ash trees are being removed. All healthy trees and unaffected vegetation will remain in place.
• Many of the affected trees were self-seeded and have grown in unsuitable locations, including close to homes and too near to the carriageway.
• Clearly signed diversion routes will be in operation throughout the closure period.

Recognising the importance of environmental stewardship, we are committed to restoring cleared areas with appropriate planting. The locations in question will be reseeded with wild grasses and more suitable vegetation to support biodiversity and the local landscape.

Given the urgency and the increasing challenges posed by winter weather, this work is considered a high safety priority, and we appreciate your support in raising awareness of the closures among your constituents.