The A509 Isham Bypass has been removed from the Department for Transport’s Major Road Network and Large Local Majors Programme, North Northamptonshire Council has confirmed. The decision follows a national review of inherited road projects.
Funding route closed
The Major Road Network and Large Local Majors Programme is the government’s main funding channel for larger local road schemes. Removal from this programme means the A509 Isham Bypass loses its primary route to secure government funding.
The scheme involves a dual carriageway bypass running west of Isham village, reconnecting with the A509 between Hill Top and Great Harrowden. The council had supported the bypass as a way to reduce congestion, improve journey times, enhance connectivity and support growth.
North Northamptonshire Council had secured £1.859 million from the DfT towards developing an outline business case. Their current timeline aimed for the bypass to open by the end of 2029, subject to funding.
Government’s reasons
According to the council, the DfT told them it had inherited a programme of unaffordable and unfunded schemes. The department prioritised projects it considered to offer the highest value for money.
In July 2025, the Transport Secretary announced a review of 41 inherited schemes. On 26 March 2026, the department confirmed continuation of support for 16 of them, with a total funding commitment of around £1 billion.
The A509 Isham Bypass was not among those retained. The government cited that some schemes were withdrawn because local authorities could no longer afford their funding contributions.
Local reaction
Councillor Chris McGiffen, Executive Member for Highways, Travel and Assets, described the announcement as "extremely disappointing" for the council, local residents, businesses and road users.
He added, "The need for this scheme has not gone away." The council intends to carefully consider the government's reasons, explore available options and determine next steps.
Councillor Martin Griffiths, council leader, said he fully shared the "frustrations and bitter disappointment" of residents who have waited many years. He said the council is not prepared to abandon a scheme that could bring substantial benefits.
Griffiths emphasised the council will continue to press for investment and work with government and partners to evaluate options.
Other schemes affected
The review has affected other projects too. Cheshire East Council reported the removal of its revised A500 corridor scheme at Crewe.
The change followed cancellation of HS2’s northern leg, which weakened the business case for the original dualling scheme.
Surrey County Council’s leader, Tim Oliver, said the government ended the A31 Farnham Corridor scheme, noting the case for action remained unchanged.
BBC News reported that the Blyth Relief Road in Northumberland will also lose funding.
Details missing
North Northamptonshire Council’s statement does not specify the total cost of the Isham Bypass, how much has been spent on development so far, or provide a list of all schemes removed in the review.
