Warning as lost drivers keep driving into A19 roadworks at Downhill Lane

Bosses at Highways England are urging road users in Sunderland to take care when travelling through the roadworks at Downhill Lane, near to the A19 and Testo’s roundabout.

It follows a number of occasions when drivers, cyclists and walkers have entered the road work site, putting both road users and workers in danger and interrupting the improvement work which is ongoing at the Downhill Lane site.

When the work is completed by Highways England, there will be extra capacity on the junction between the A19 and A1290, as well as link roads between Downhill Lane and Testo’s roundabout, which should boost journey times for motorists during rush hour.

Currently, Downhill Lane is closed to the public, meaning it is no longer possible to use it as a route from West Boldon to the A19, A1290 or Washington Road, with restrictions applying to drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

Road users are advised to follow the diversions that are in place, to look at signs for exits rather than using a satnav, not to follow works vehicles and to stick to the speed limit.

Drivers can use the A184 to Testo’s roundabout and continue to the Downhill Lane junction – with cyclists and pedestrians told to use the bridleway from the A841, opposite Cooper Sunderland BMW, to connect back to Downhill Lane.

Improvement work on the junction started in October, six months ahead of the original schedule and is estimated to be costing £51million.

Support your Echo and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on SAFC and new puzzles every day.

With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.

Click here to subscribe.