Part of A1 closed after huge sinkhole opens up

A huge sinkhole has opened up on a major North East road, causing headaches for motorists heading towards the Metrocentre shopping centre.

The A1 northbound in Gateshead is currently shut between junctions 67 near Lamesley and 68 near Lobley Hill after the crater appeared.

The sinkhole, which is reported to be 5m wide by 3m deep, was reported to police at around 11.45pm on Saturday.

Highways England said that emergency repairs were currently under way to restore the carriageway, describing it as a "serious defect".

It added: "It will take significant effort, resources and time to complete this repair. Road users are advised to allow plenty of extra time for their journey. Early expectation is that the road will remain closed for all of today - Sunday 26th June."

Motorists approaching the closure near the village of Lamesley will be diverted off the A1 and on to Kingsway through the Team Valley trading estate, to then re-join the A1 at the junction with the A692.

Northumbria Police said: "Nobody has been injured and officers are working closely with Highways England to assist with traffic management.

"We thank motorists for their cooperation while work is under way to ensure the road is made safe for travel."