Major delays on A1(M) with traffic stopped due to fallen power cable
Motorists are facing major delays on the A1(M) after it was closed in both directions due to a fallen power cable.
The route is currently closed north and southbound between junctions 59 (Coatham) and 60 (Bradbury). Electrical engineers are at the scene, with National Highways and Durham Constabulary officers also attending.
National Highways was alerted to the incident at around 4.45pm on Monday. Drivers are facing long delays as traffic grinds to halt, with police asking motorists to avoid the area.
A Durham Constabulary[1] spokesperson said: "Drivers are being urged to avoid the A1(M[2]) between Aycliffe Services and Bradbury where both carriageways are at a standstill due to a fallen power cable. Traffic lights at Aycliffe Services are also affected.
"Emergency services are on the scene between Junctions 59 and 60 but it is unclear at present how long traffic will be disrupted and drivers are urged to avoid the area if possible."
A diversion has been put in place with northbound traffic being diverted via the solid diamond diversion symbol:
- Exit the A1(M) at junction 59 and at the end of the slip road take the first exit at the roundabout onto the A167.
- Follow the A167 for approximately five miles to the roundabout with the A689 at Rushyford.
- Take the third exit onto the A689 eastbound and continue to re-join the A1(M) at junction 60.
Southbound traffic is being diverted via the solid triangle diversion symbol:
- Follow the above diversion route in reverse.
Nearly 2,000 properties have also been left without power. Northern Grid said there is a 'major power cut' in the DL1, 2, 3, 5, 10 and 11 postcode areas affecting 1,985 homes.
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References
- ^ Durham Constabulary (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
- ^ A1(M (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
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