Eight months of roadworks planned on 4.5 mile stretch of the A1 in Northumberland

National Highways is set to begin drainage remediation and sign replacement works between Morpeth and Felton which are expected to take until September.

A public notice detailing the scheme outlines plans for a 40mph speed limit over a 4.5 mile stretch between Low Espley and Thirston.

The works are expected to start on Monday, January 12 for eight months, or until completed.

The effect of the order will be, for 24 hours a day, at times during the works, to impose a temporary 40mph speed restriction on the A1 from 1700 metres north of the northbound exit slip road at the A697 to 3800 metres south of the B6345 overbridge, a distance of 7650 metres.

Several laybys will also be closed, including those 2890 metres north of the northbound exit slip road at the A697; 2630 metres north of the southbound entry slip road at the A697; 768 metres north of the northbound entry slip road at Stannington Interchange; and 581 metres south of Felton Lane Head Junction, which will be used as an abnormal load holding area.

It will also be necessary, between 8pm and 6am, at times during the works to impose a temporary 10mph speed restriction on the A1 from 2670 metres north of the northbound exit slip road at the A697 to 4770 metres south of the B6345 overbridge, a distance of 5700 metres. The 10mph limit will only apply when, for safety reasons, traffic has to be escorted through the works by a highway maintenance vehicle.

Vehicles will also be banned from entering or leaving the A1 southbound carriageway at Jacksons layby entrance, Tritlington and from entering or leaving the A1 northbound carriageway at Causey Park layby entrance.

Traffic management will be in force 24 hours a day and traffic signs will indicate the extent of the restrictions.

Access will be maintained at all times to premises and properties which are accessible from, and only from, the A1. The Order comes into force on January 11 and has a maximum duration of 18 months.

For the latest public notices, please visit: https://publicnoticeportal.uk/