HGV fire blocks lanes on busy route leading on to A19

The emergency services are dealing with an HGV blaze on one of Sunderland's busiest roads.
By Fiona Thompson
Published 23rd Apr 2019, 08:04 BST
Updated 23rd Apr 2019, 09:59 BST
A CCTV image issued by the @NELiveTraffic network showing the truck blaze and traffic on the A1231.A CCTV image issued by the @NELiveTraffic network showing the truck blaze and traffic on the A1231.
A CCTV image issued by the @NELiveTraffic network showing the truck blaze and traffic on the A1231.

The truck was on the A1231 Sunderland Highway when it caught light at around 7.50am.

The incident blocked lanes one and two eastbound just before the roundabout leading on to the A19 in Washington, with traffic backed up to Barmston.

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Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue was called to deal with the fire.

It sent crews from Washington, Birtley and Marley Park to put out the fire.

The service also sent officers to inspect the truck before the vehicle was removed, but said there was likely to be increased traffic congestion in the area until it was taken away.

The area has since been cleansed.

The clear up effort following the blaze. Photo @NELiveTrafficThe clear up effort following the blaze. Photo @NELiveTraffic
The clear up effort following the blaze. Photo @NELiveTraffic

In an update issued at 8.15am, North East Live said the fire had been put out and the vehicle is now awaiting recovery, with delays still mounting and tailbacks towards Nissan Way.

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Go North East has said there are delays of 30 minutes due to the incident.

Service 8 is diverting via Cherry Blossom Way and Washington Road.

The 8.00am departure from Sunderland - service 78 - is not operating, as this bus has been stuck behind the incident.

Related topics:SunderlandHGVWashingtonA19