The call for more time is a major blow for Balfour Beatty, Kier and Keltbray who have built work compounds and were in preparation to mobilise for the major job.
Just two weeks ago Balfour Beatty started the hunt for subcontractor partners to deliver key packages like earthworks and the pavements for the whole project.
The firms are to work under an enterprise-wide collaborative working agreement to upgrade the remaining 18 miles of single carriageway sections and key junctions on the route between M6 Junction 40 (Penrith) and the A1 at Scotch Corner improved.
The A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project is one of the most critical road upgrades in the north of England and was designated by Government as a “Project Speed pathfinder” project.
Under the acceleration plan, the team had the goal to halve construction time for the project, bringing forward the opening by five years to 2029.
Transport Minister Huw Merriman said a Development Consent Order decision would be extended until 7 March.
One reason given for the extension was further consideration on the potential impact to the North Pennine Moors Special Area of Conservation.
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