Drivers on the A19 near Stockton are advised to allow more time for their journeys this weekend as an important upgrade continues on the carriageway.

National Highways has been improving the concrete surface on the A19 northbound, between the A689 Interchange and the end of the concrete carriageway, to create smoother and safer journeys for drivers.

The work has been taking place since early October and was scheduled to finish by November 8.

Due to inclement weather during October, however, it was not possible to work on certain parts of the work during scheduled periods and more closures are needed to safely complete the scheme.

Read more: 'We demand a general election now': Protest to be held in Darlington this weekend

A full weekend closure is planned on this section of carriageway this weekend from 8pm tonight (Friday, November 4) to Monday, November 7 at 6am. 

The scheme is now scheduled to finish on Wednesday, November 16, with overnight closures also planned Monday to Friday between 8pm and 6am. 

National Highways Project Manager Michael Morgan said:  “Safety is always our top priority and we can only carry out this work when weather conditions allow it. Unfortunately, the recent heavy rain has meant that we need to extend the duration of this scheme.

“We have already completed the resurfacing on the southbound carriageway and the current works on the northbound carriageway is the last phase of the work, which will ensure the road remains safe, dependable and durable. We have done all we can to keep disruption to drivers to an absolute minimum, but we apologise for the delay and any disruption the rescheduled work may cause.

“We would like to thank everyone for their patience while this work has been carried out and aim to have this completed as soon as we possibly can.”

Read more: County Durham Indian restaurant wins major award - have you tried it yet?

Closures and diversions

The A19 northbound carriageway will close overnight (Monday to Friday) from 7 to 16 November, between 8pm and 6am.

During this closure, traffic will be diverted east at Wolviston Interchange on to the A689 through Hartlepool, before joining the A179 westbound and re-joining the A19 at Sheraton.

The A19 northbound carriageway will also be closed between 8pm tonight and 6am on 7 November.

During this closure, traffic will be diverted via a short diversion up and over the A19 at Wolviston Interchange. 

While work takes place, anyone planning to travel during these times is advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow more time to reach their destination. 

Read next:

If you want to read more great stories, why not subscribe to The Northern Echo for as little as £1.25 a week. Click here.