New joints for A1 bridge over ECML

A busy North East bridge that carries the A1 over the East Coast main line will undergo vital maintenance work in November to fix decades of wear of tear.

Constructed over 40 years ago, Allerdene railway bridge, close to junction 67, near Gateshead and the Angel of the North, requires essential work because its joints are approaching the end of their useable life and need to be replaced.

The layout of the road along the bridge and nature of the work required means it can only be carried out safely if one of the carriageways is closed and the work is carried out overnight.

Amjad Khan, Highways England project manager, said: “We understand overnight closures will cause disruption, and I’d like to thank people for their patience in advance. While the bridge is safe, it’s extremely important we take measures to maintain it so it stays that way.”

“The work is being carried out in two phases with each phase needing several overnight closures of the A1 in one direction at a time, so our team of engineers can work around the clock to complete the job as quickly as possible.”

“We would advise drivers to allow plenty of time for their journeys.”

Train services will not be affected by this work.