Press release

Southbound A1 closures for bridge joint work, Tyneside

Work to refurbish expansion joints on the bridge carrying the southbound A1 Newcastle Gateshead Western Bypass over Derwenthaugh Road will start next week.

Highways Agency Project Manager Steve Bishop said:

The bridge expansion joints on the southbound carriageway have come to the end of their design life. By replacing the joints we will prolong the life of the bridge and provide a smoother surface for drivers. To minimise the disruption to drivers we are carrying out the work at night and there will be a clearly signed diversion route in place. Drivers are asked to take extra care and leave more time for their journeys.

Work will take place overnight from 16 to 30 June between 9.30pm and 6am. The southbound A1 will be closed from Derwenthaugh Interchange to Metro Centre Interchange. The Derwenthaugh Interchange southbound entry slip road and Swalwell Interchange southbound entry slip road will also be closed. During the work drivers will exit the A1 at Derwenthaugh Interchange and follow a diversion route north on the A694 Derwenthaugh Road, east on to the A1114 Riverside Way, east on Scotswood View then south on Hollinside Road to re-join the A1 southbound carriageway at the Metro Centre Interchange.

General enquiries

Members of the public should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000.

Media enquiries

Journalists should contact the Highways Agency press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.

Published 11 June 2014