ROAD building schemes in the countryside will always draw criticism from environmental campaigners.

Debate over the merits of such schemes reflect the delicate balance which has to be struck between the needs of the economy and the environment.

We fully recognise the concerns over the damage dualling the A66 may cause to an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. But it is wrong to assume that this project will be used as a precedent to justify a new wave of road building in similar parts of our country.

This is not a new road we are talking about. The A66 is a well-established route, the main artery between the North-East and the North-West. The road is already heavily used. There is no evidence a dual carriageway will attract significantly more traffic. The dualling largely consists of simply widening the existing road. It is difficult to see how this can have a significant impact on the landscape.

We agree that it is vital that careful consideration is given to ensure the impact of the dual carriageway is mitigated as far as possible. But those who remain unconvinced of the case for upgrading the A66 may like to consider the safety record of the road, and that the improvements will undoubtedly save lives.

On balance, the case for this investment in the road is justified.