A1(M) near Darlington closed with no timescale to reopen

Both carriageways between junctions 59 (Newton Aycliffe) and 60 (Sedgefield) were closed shortly after 7am and diversions were put in place. 

An investigation found the flooding to be a result of the sheer volume of rainwater from neighbouring fields rather than any drainage issues. 

Work continues to remove the floodwater from the carriageway with assistance being sought from the fire service. 

Drivers travelling north are being advised to use the A19 as an alternative route. There are also closures on some local authority roads in the area, including the A68 westbound from A1M J58. This is adding to the traffic build-up on the A1(M) approaching the closure.

There is no timescale for the reopening of the A1(M) affected by flooding as an assessment of the condition of the carriageway will have to be carried out once the water is cleared. This may impact evening peak travel time. 

Diversion routes

Southbound - Solid Triangle - Exit the A1(M) southbound at J60 and take the third exit at the roundabout onto the A689 Continue for approximately 1.8 miles, turn left at The Eden Arms Hotel, Rushyford onto the A167 Continue southbound on the A167. At the roundabout with the Hill House Farm, continue straight ahead towards the A1(M) J59. Re-join the A1(M) southbound using the entry slip road

Northbound - Solid Triangle - Exit the A1(M) northbound at J59 and continue to the end of the slip road. Turn right onto the A167 and continue for approximately 5 miles. Turn right at The Eden Arms Hotel, Rushyford onto the A689. Follow the A689 eastbound towards the A1(M) J60. Re-join the A1(M) northbound using the J60 entry slip road.