National Highways has reopened discussions with the construction industry over the A46 Newark Bypass, putting the estimated value of a potential replacement delivery contract at £700 million.
The market engagement follows the termination of Skanska’s £297 million contract for the project earlier this year. The scheme would dual around four miles of the A46 between Farndon and Winthorpe, including a new bridge over the A1 and improvements to junctions and route connections.
Procurement plans remain conditional
National Highways is asking contractors for views on the commercial and procurement model before deciding whether to launch a formal tender. The £700 million estimate is not directly comparable with Skanska’s former contract value, as it reflects a different proposed procurement and delivery basis.
Companies wishing to participate have until 13 October to register. National Highways plans to issue a recorded procurement briefing on 20 October, followed by one-to-one meetings with potential suppliers from 26 October.
However, the future of the bypass remains uncertain. The Government is consulting on proposals to cancel the A46 Newark Bypass and the A38 Derby Junctions scheme as part of efforts to reduce spending under the third Road Investment Strategy and redirect funding towards increased defence expenditure. No final decision has been announced.
Skanska was appointed in 2022 through National Highways’ Regional Delivery Partnership framework and progressed the Newark project through design and planning. The Department for Transport said the contract was ended after delays and because it was no longer considered the most appropriate commercial route for delivery.
Potential replacement contract in 2028
Development consent for the bypass was granted in October 2025. If the project survives the Government’s review, the current procurement timetable anticipates publication of an estimated tender notice on 15 July 2027, with a replacement construction contract potentially starting in late 2028.