Plans to build a dual carriageway bypass for Isham in North Northamptonshire have moved a step closer as the council submits its Outline Business Case (OBC) to the Department for Transport (DfT).

The submission is a standard step for major highway projects, enabling the Government to assess the financial viability of the proposed 3.75km bypass. It also includes a request for £4.346 million in funding, to be matched by £2.172 million from North Northamptonshire Council, totalling £6.518m. These funds will cover detailed design work, land acquisition negotiations, compulsory purchase procedures, and tendering for construction.

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The previous Government committed to fully funding the £116 million construction costs for the Isham Bypass late last year. Once completed, the road is expected to alleviate congestion in the village and support economic growth in the region.

The project will require a Full Business Case submission to secure the full construction funding. Planning permission is anticipated to be reviewed by early 2025, with construction slated to begin in April 2027 and the bypass opening in March 2029.

The Isham Bypass is the first phase of a broader plan to dual the A509 between the A14 south of Kettering and the A45 at Wellingborough, further enhancing transport connectivity in North Northamptonshire.