New data highlights 'disruption' created by A59 bypass scheme between Harrogate and Skipton
New data has confirmed what Harrogate drivers already suspected – the £82.5 million Kex Gill realignment scheme in Nidderdale is one of the most expensive and disruptive roadworks in the UK.
To understand which regions of the UK will be most affected by roadworks in 2026, the team at one of the UK’s leading car and van leasing specialists – https://www.leasingoptions.co.uk/ - has compiled a list of the biggest roadwork projects.
The firm assessed their average spend, what they are hoping to achieve, and how drivers will be affected during construction.
1 Lower Thames Crossing
Cost: £10.6b
“After years of talk and planning, work is finally beginning on the Lower Thames Crossing to link Kent and Essex.
“Since the project is expected to take several years, there are concerns that it will cause significant delays on surrounding roads such as the M25 and A2."
2 A417 Missing Link
Cost: £250-£500m
"The new dual carriageway will connect the two existing dual carriageway sections on the A417 between Brockworth bypass and Cowley.
“Temporary speed limits of 40mph are being enforced to protect workers, and weekend closures on local roads have been a recurring problem.”
3 Kex Gill Bypass
Cost: £82.5m
"The route near Blubberhouses is part of the A59 road across the Pennines between Preston and York, located within the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
“The upgrade is required as the 1820s-built bypass is prone to landslips and road cracking, which accounted for up to eight weeks of closure in 2026.”
“While the rebuild has largely avoided road disruptions itself, there may be some closures or delays before the road is open to traffic.”
4 Tarbock Island Improvements
Cost: £10m
“A key transport and freight gateway in the Liverpool City Region, Tarbock Island is a large roundabout where the M62, M57, and A5300 meet.
“Some traffic restrictions and diversions are in place, such as temporary lanes and slip closures.”
5 A382 Improvements
Cost £5-10m
“The improvements to the A382, a main road in Devon are minor in comparison to others but the upgrades have caused significant disruption.”