Plans to close an M6 junction in Cumbria while motorway bridges are replaced should be reconsidered, a county MP said.
National Highways will replace eight deteriorating bridges and is likely to result in the closure of the M6’s Junction 38 in one direction for up to four years.
Westmorland & Lonsdale MP Tim Farron is asking National Highways to review its proposal as it is feared they will damage the communities of Tebay, Orton, Kirkby Stephen, and surrounding villages.
Tebay resident Charlotte Iniff said: “The partial Junction 38 closure for four years will mean four years of traffic disruption.
“The proposed long diversions up and down the M6 won’t be followed and we will have rat runs through our villages.
“Our villages and roads will be full of frustrated motorway traffic and they are just not suitable. It will be dangerous.
“The lengthy diversions will mean family life will be disrupted for many leaving children and elderly residents isolated from schools, hospitals and key services.”
Jonathan Capper, managing director of Lyon Equipment Limited in Tebay said: “This disruption is going to have a significant impact on all local businesses.
“Lyon Equipment supply safety equipment and training for fire and rescue, Coastguard, ambulance and mountain rescue services throughout the UK.
“Rescue services rely on our next day delivery to provide appropriate national emergency rescue cover. The partial closure of Junction 38 will inevitably mean that we will not be able to provide the level of service required by these emergency services.
“The impact of the closure of Junction 38 will also have a legacy effect for all businesses. Keeping Junction 38 open is essential to ensure the long-term viability of businesses in the area.”
A survey, which was carried out by residents, asked about the impact of the project on the local communities.
It claims that the work could cost the local area up to £10 million in reduced profits for local businesses, result in the loss of 150 jobs and increase living costs.
Mr Farron added: “We understand that National Highways must do vital maintenance to keep our roads safe.
“But precious little thought has been given to the communities of Tebay, Grayrigg, Kirkby Stephen, and Orton.
“The partial closure of J38, at the same time as the closure of the bridge on the A685 just outside of Tebay will be devastating for local residents, families, businesses and farms.
“It must be possible for National Highways to think again and to ensure that these communities aren’t cut off for years on end.”
A National Highways spokesman said: “We are aware of concerns over planned closures on the M6 in Cumbria and are in regular contact with local MPs and partners.
“These works are vital to improve safety – and we will look to reduce disruption as much as possible when main work starts in two years.”
It added that access to Junction 38 would continue to remain open in at least one direction during the safety critical bridge work.
Work on the scheme is due to start in early 2027.
The six-mile Lune Gorge section of the motorway celebrated its 50th birthday in 2020 but the bridges are now showing their age and a major refurbishment programme is being planned, National Highways said.
National Highways has appointed lead contractor, Kier, to deliver the work.
