The A1(M) has opened the southbound carriageway in County Durham after major flooding - but diversions remain in place for those travelling north. 

The main motorway route has reopened the southbound carriageway after floodwater made the road unsafe early this morning.

The northbound carriageway is still closed between junction 60 at Bradbury and junction 59 for the A167 to Darlington and Newton Aycliffe.

Pictures from the scene show flood water spanning all lanes of the carriageway.

Motorists have reported delays of over one hour in the area, and delays are expected to persist through the evening. 

A spokesperson for National Highways said: "The A1M in County Durham has re-opened southbound but remains closed northbound between J60 (Bradbury) & J59 (Aycliffe) due to flooding following a period of heavy rainfall."

 "National Highways Traffic Officers are on scene alongside our contractors who will be working throughout the afternoon to clear the water.

"It's likely to take some time to clear as the flood water is running off the adjacent fields."

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Northbound diversion route

Diverted traffic is advised to follow the solid triangle diversion symbol on road signs. 

  • 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