National Highways has opened preliminary market engagement for a potential £700m design and build contract for the A46 Newark Bypass, despite continuing uncertainty over whether the scheme will proceed.
The proposed project would widen approximately 6.5km of single carriageway between the Farndon and Winthorpe roundabouts near Newark-on-Trent, creating two lanes in each direction.
Procurement preparation under way
A market engagement notice is seeking supplier input to help National Highways develop its commercial and procurement strategy. The estimated contract value is £700m excluding VAT, or £840m including VAT.
The notice gives estimated contract dates running from December 2028 to December 2038. It does not represent approval for construction to begin, however, and National Highways has described the process as market engagement ahead of any further procurement stage.
Potential suppliers were invited to register by 13 October 2026. A pre-recorded procurement presentation was scheduled for 20 October, followed by planned one-to-one engagement sessions from 26 October.
Scheme remains subject to Government decision
The procurement activity is taking place while the Government consults on proposed changes to the third Road Investment Strategy. The A46 Newark Bypass is among the schemes being considered for cancellation, and the procurement notice states that no final decision has been made.
The Department for Transport confirmed in July that the bypass was one of two projects under consideration for cancellation. A decision is expected only after the consultation has concluded.
The scheme already has planning consent. National Highways’ project information records that its Development Consent Order was approved by the Secretary of State in October 2025, although the project page continues to list its start date, end date and cost as to be confirmed.
National Highways has also previously confirmed that its existing contract with Skanska would not proceed to the main construction works after delivery of the scheme was expected to take place later than originally assumed.
The A46 is described by National Highways as an important connection between the M1 and Leicester, and the A1 and central Lincolnshire. The outcome of the Government consultation will determine whether the procurement preparation can progress towards a construction contract.