National Highways Considers Temporary Slip-Roads for M6 Junction 38 Amid Bridge Work Plans

National Highways is reviewing a new proposal to install temporary slip-roads at M6 Junction 38 after initial plans to partially close the junction for four years met widespread opposition.

Under the original scheme, part of the northbound side would close for two years and the southbound side for the same period, as part of a project to replace the Lune Gorge bridges between 2027 and 2031. Residents and local businesses raised concerns about the potential disruption, prompting calls for alternative solutions.

The revised proposal, drawn up by motorway consultants BWB, would allow the junction to remain partially open while bridge work takes place. The designs follow a petition presented to Downing Street by local residents and business leaders, backed by 5,500 signatures.

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron, who delivered the petition, met with Simon Lightwood MP, Minister for Roads and Buses, and National Highways representatives to present the updated slip-road plans. He said:

"National Highways were initially set to reject our proposals, but after presenting the newly designed plans, they have now agreed to review them. The original designs were hindered because National Highways did not provide all the information BWB needed to make a fully accurate proposal."

He added:"Thanks to everyone keeping up the pressure. It’s crucial we continue to fight and don’t take no for an answer."

Following the submission of the new plans, National Highways postponed a stakeholder meeting at Tebay Social Club on 28 January. It was replaced with a short online session covering the general project, avoiding discussion of the temporary slip-roads.

A spokesperson for National Highways said:"An amended proposal was submitted by campaigners yesterday, which we now need to assess as part of our project plans for Junction 38. We are in the final stages of designing the project, including evaluating temporary slip-roads, and will share our conclusions in due course."