A temporary 50mph speed limit will be in place on the A19 Tees Viaduct starting tonight.

National Highways have confirmed the safety measure will come into effect from 10pm on Thursday (August 15) on both the north and southbound sides of the road.

The aim of this is ensure a reduction in the likelihood of potential crashes and improve traffic on this part of the route between Middlesbrough and Stockton.

A 50mph speed limit has been in place on the A19 southbound between Norton Interchange and Portrack Interchange since July 2020, due to some ongoing repairs after the bridge at Portrack was struck by a vehicle.

The speed limit will cover the A19 southbound between Norton Interchange and Stockton Road Interchange, while on the northbound side, the limit will be in effect between Stockton Road Interchange to just north of Portrack Interchange.

The A19 southbound entry slip road at Portrack Interchange and the A19 northbound exit slip at Portrack Interchange will also be subject to new 50mph speed limits.

National Highways project manager, Michael Morgan, said: “Following a review of incidents on this viaduct over the past 18 months, and discussion with our partners at Cleveland Police, Middlesbrough Council and Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, we’ve decided to reduce the speed limit for everyone’s safety.

"This aims to reduce the number of incidents involving vehicles driving at high speeds, as well as protect the bridge from damage as a result of collisions.

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“We also aim to help improve the flow of traffic by bringing the speed of traffic on the main carriageway in line with the 50mph limit on some of the slip roads, as well as adjacent routes.

“Whilst the new speed limit is in place, we will continue to review safety and traffic flows across the Tees Viaduct and consider whether the new speed limit should be made permanent.

“This will be the subject of a consultation with our partners and the public.”