Where was the project located?

The scheme is located on the A1 between Dishforth and Leeming in North Yorkshire.

Why was the scheme needed?

Prior to the scheme, the A1 was an all-purpose two lane dual carriageway carrying in the region of 45-54,000 vehicles per day with approximately one-quarter being heavy goods vehicles.

The route generally followed the 'Dere Street' Roman Road except for deviations at Leeming and Catterick. The former A1 route was constructed in the 1950's and early 60's, and as such failed to meet present day standards for layout and alignment.

The former road also contained a high number of sub-standard accesses, central reserve crossings and local road junctions with a number slow moving agricultural vehicles used the route to enter and exit farms and fields adjoining the A1.

The route had a poor accident record with safety, congestion and journey time reliability problems.

*The estimated final cost for this scheme is £315 million. This figure is subject to final account closures and may result in a variation of this figure.

What work was carried out?

We have upgrading 12 miles (19.3km) of the A1 dual carriageway to three-lane motorway standard between Dishforth and Leeming in North Yorkshire. The new A1(M) is generally follows the line of the former A1 road.

Motorway junctions have been provided at Dishforth (J49), Baldersby/A61 (J50) and Leeming (J51). A local access road has been provided to meet the needs of local and non-motorway traffic. Care has also been taken to meet the needs of equestrians, cyclists, pedestrians and public transport users.

How did this benefit road users?

The objectives of the improvement scheme were to reduce high levels of accidents and congestion and enhance journey time reliability by upgrading the A1 to dual 3-lane motorway standard.

Following scheme completion, we undertake a Post Opening Project Evaluation (POPE) to assess whether the scheme has achieved its anticipated outcomes. The evaluation is generally carried out at one and five years after scheme opening. The results of the POPE allow us to learn lessons and improve future scheme delivery.

Learn more about the POPE process.

How do I find out more information?

If you have any queries about this project you should contact the Highways Agency Information Line by emailing ha_​info@​highways.​gsi.​gov.​uk or calling 0300 123 5000.