THE Government's study into the A1 in Northumberland has reached public consultation with the first in a series of exhibitions this week.

Safety and operational issues on the A1 in the county are being considered, as are the potential for enhanced economic development which may result from upgraded infrastructure.

Consultants appointed to carry out the work have completed their audit of problems and issues and suggested possible solutions.

A1 Multi-Modal Study project director Andrew Johnson said: "We are looking to develop a 30-year plan for the transport infrastructure of Northumberland to address the identified problems on the A1.

"Working on such timescales can be difficult as there will be a delicate balance to strike.

"The regional business community feels that the A1 is inadequate at the moment and wants improvements to take place as soon as possible.

"However, when dealing with an area like Northumberland, due account has to be taken of the special environment and protected areas of the county."

Exhibitions will be held at Town Square, Gateshead MetroCentre, from 10am-8pm tomorrow, and at the Ashington Leisure Centre, Bothal Suite, Ashington, from 2-9pm on Friday