Essential work on a bridge at a key A1(M) junction near Aycliffe is still on schedule despite rumours of delays.

National Highways have confirmed that work is continuing on schedule and any updates will be posted on their website.

The set of upgrades to the bridge will include repairs, lighting work and resurfacing.

Work began at the start of April and rumours have been going around social media that the work has been delayed.

A National Highways spokesperson said: "The A1M  junction 59 (Aycliffe) bridge deck repair scheme is currently still scheduled to be completed at the end of July 2024."

The work is being carried out in three phases:
• Phase 1 - Bridge deck repairs. These are scheduled to take place between 2 April and July this year.
• Phase 2 - Lighting renewal: Expected to take place from mid-May to mid-August 2024.
• Phase 3 - Resurfacing of the junction. This is expected to be carried out in July.

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National Highways Programme Delivery Manager Stuart Allanson said: "The forthcoming work at junction 59 reflects our commitment to maintaining safety and improving infrastructure across the North East. We understand the importance of this junction to the community and aim to complete this work as quickly as possible.

“To make sure the junction remains safe and to minimise longer-term disruption, we are carrying out significant repairs to the bridge. Once this has been carried out, we can also reopen both lanes.

“Additionally, the upgrade in lighting and resurfacing will further improve safety and create much smoother journeys, benefiting all road users.”