GOV.UK
Press release
A1 closures this weekend for gantry installation in Gateshead
Drivers are advised that work to install 2 key gantries weighing a combined 56 tonnes will take place on the A1 in Gateshead this weekend
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A 100 tonne crane will lift the gantries into place between junctions 68 (Lobley Hill) and junction 69 (A184 Gateshead Quays).
The northbound A1 will be closed from junction 68 to junction 69 from 8pm on Friday 7 August to 9am on Saturday 8 August, and from 8pm Saturday 8 August until 9am Sunday 9 August.
The southbound A1 from junction 69 to junction 68 and the A184 westbound will be closed on the same dates and times.
Highways England Project Manager, Lynne Biddles, said:
The work to install these gantries is a key milestone for the project. Large cranes will be used to install the gantries and it’s therefore essential we close sections of the motorway to install them safely.
We’re advising people to allow extra time for their journeys when the closures are taking place, although we’ve deliberately timed the work to be carried out when traffic levels are at their lowest.
Clearly signed diversions will be in place during the closures and drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys.
The closures will take place as work continues on the £61 million A1 Coal House to Metro Centre improvement scheme.
Once the scheme is complete, almost 4 miles of the A1 will be widened to 3 lanes in both directions between Coal House junction and the Metro Centre junction.
Work is expected to be completed by Spring 2016.
More information about the scheme and the diversions can be found on the project pages.
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the Highways England customer contact centre on 0300 123 5000.
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the Highways England press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.
Published 5 August 2015