WARNING: Speed cameras now live on A1 and A1(M) in the North East

A series of average speed cameras installed in two major roadwork zones have now been turned on, National Highways have officially confirmed.

The cameras on the A1 between Junction 65, Birtley and Junction 68, Coal House Roundabout officially went live on Monday (January 10).

Read more: Why speed cameras have gone up on the A1(M) between Durham and Darlington

Meanwhile, the cameras on the A1(M) between Junction 59, near the A167 turnoff and Junction 61, near Amazon Durham, went live in the week before Christmas.

Average speed cameras have gone up on the A1(M) near Amazon Durham Picture: GOOGLE

Limited to 50mph, both "average speed check" zones in both directions have been put in place to allow improvement works to be made safely.

With work expected to be completed by 2025, the section between Birtley and the Coal House Roundabout is undergoing a £220m upgrade.

Roads bosses have previously said the upgrades will see the widening of carriageways and additional lanes added in both directions.

Meanwhile, speed cameras have been installed between Junction 61 and Junction 59 ahead of the replacement of central reservation safety barriers.

Read more: Why speed cameras are still 'not in use' despite roadworks starting on A1

This is being done in two phases, with the first between Junction 60 and Junction 61 and the second between Junction 60 and 59.

The speed cameras along the A1 between Birtley and Coal House in Tyne & Wear Pictures: SARAH CALDECOTT

The switching on of cameras in both roadwork areas comes just weeks after drivers spotted "not in use" signs next to the cameras on the A1.

Drivers said that the cameras were not live despite being installed ahead of construction starting some months before.

Read more: Lorry with 'big flashing sign' could be used at Tyne Tunnel entrances

At the time, National Highways said that final camera checks and calibration had been taking place and that the limit remained enforceable by police at all times.

But confirming the cameras had gone live, National Highways said the speed limit had been put in place for the safety of the public and its workforce.

It said that the cameras are being enforced by the relevant police forces and added: "Again, we advise road users to adhere to the limit for their safety and that of our workforce, and thank them for their patience while we carry out these important safety improvements."

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