Drivers using a key section of the A1(M) motorway in England are being warned of a temporary speed reduction set to begin in December. The national speed limit will be cut to 50mph to facilitate essential overnight bridge inspection work.
Essential Overnight Works for Safety
The temporary 50mph limit will be in force on the A1(M) in County Durham, specifically affecting the areas around Junction 58 and Junction 59. A spokesperson for National Highways confirmed that the measure is necessary to allow teams to carry out vital inspection work safely while minimising disruption for road users.
The work has been strategically scheduled for overnight hours to lessen the impact on daytime traffic. "We've scheduled the work overnight to limit the impact on daytime traffic," the spokesperson stated. "This approach allows us to complete important safety checks without significantly affecting commuters and hauliers who rely on the A1(M) every day."
Specifics of the Speed Limit and Road Closures
The reduced speed limit of 50mph will be active between 8pm and 6am. The works are planned to commence on Wednesday, December 3 and are expected to last for two nights, subject to completion.
The specific areas affected are:
- The northbound carriageway from 400 metres north of the Burtree Lane underbridge for a distance of 1,500 metres.
- The southbound carriageway from 260 metres north of the entry slip road at Junction 59 (Aycliffe Interchange), stretching southwards for 1,400 metres.
Commitment to Public and Emergency Service Safety
National Highways has emphasised that public safety and maintaining access for emergency services are top priorities. "We work closely with emergency services to ensure they can continue responding to incidents without delay," the spokesperson explained.
Richard Foxton, from National Highways’ Leeds office, which issued the formal order, thanked motorists in advance: "We'd like to thank road users in advance for their patience and cooperation. Routine inspections like these are essential to keeping our bridges and roads safe for everyone who depends on them."
