The AA is urging drivers to check their route and allow extra time for journeys ahead of a series of overnight closures on the A66 in early May.

Overnight closures will be in place between Kemplay roundabout and Temple Sowerby from midnight to 5am each night from 5 May to 9 May 2026 inclusive, as National Highways carries out work linked to the A66 Northern Trans-Pennine project.

Drivers travelling between M6 junction 40 and Temple Sowerby are being advised to plan ahead, particularly if making longer or unfamiliar journeys, with diversions expected to affect traffic on several nights.

There will also be an additional restriction on Friday 8 May, when the westbound carriageway will be reduced to one lane from 8pm to 5am between Kemplay roundabout and M6 junction 40.

National Highways says the average speed cameras are being installed because of concerns that some drivers are not complying with the existing 40mph speed limit through the works area.

The AA is reminding drivers that while emergency access will remain in place, all other traffic will need to follow the diversion routes in operation.

Diversions are expected to be particularly significant for heavy goods vehicles because of restrictions through Kirkby Stephen. National Highways says HGVs will be diverted via the M6, A69 and A1, with the route between M6 junction 40 and Scotch Corner adding around 115 miles (185km).

Lee Morley, AA expert patrol said: “Drivers heading along the A66 in early May should make sure they know exactly what their route looks like before they set off. Overnight closures can catch people out, especially on longer journeys or when driving in unfamiliar areas, so building in extra time and checking for diversions will be really important.

“For lorry drivers and anyone covering longer distances, the impact could be much greater because some of the diversion routes are lengthy. Even though the work is being carried out overnight to keep disruption down, motorists should not assume their usual route will be available.

“Our advice is simple: check traffic updates before leaving, follow the signed diversion routes and use the AA RoutePlanner to check the latest route information before setting off.”