A SECTION of the A66 will be closed to motorists overnight later this month.

There will be no access for vehicles heading westbound onto the A66 from junction 40 of the M6 at Penrith when the closure takes place.

It will happen between 7pm on Sunday night (February 23) and 6am on Monday (February 24).

A spokesman from Highways England, who are carrying out the work, said: "We’ve started a two-month project to improve cycling provision along the westbound A66 between the M6 at junction 40 and A66 Rheged roundabout.

"It involves widening the footpath for cyclists.

"Work is taking place between 9.30am and 4pm each day and 8pm and 6am each evening and requires the temporary closure of lane one of the westbound carriageway during these times only with some overnight carriageway closures."

Access will also be closed overnight between 7pm and 6am for four nights from Sunday, March 1.

Clearly-signed diversions will be in place.

The spokesman added: "On the night of Wednesday, February 26 from 7pm until 6am, Redhills junction will be closed, access will be from the Rheged roundabout instead."