The national highways North East said on X:

”The #A1 in #TyneandWear is closed in both directions between J71 #Whickham and J70 #Dunston due to a Police Led Incident.

More information to follow, thank you for your patience.”

Both lanes of the A1 near the Metrocentre are closed due to a collision that occurred at 10:15 AM on Monday, with police on-site. Emergency services are currently responding, and drivers are advised to seek alternative routes whenever possible.

Emergency services are on the scene, and drivers are advised to seek alternative routes when feasible.

Gateshead Council said on Facebook: “PLEASE note the A1 between J70 (Dunston) and J71 (Metrocentre + Whickham) is currently closed in both directions.
Traffic is being diverted via Market Lane in Whickham, but please avoid the area if you can. National Highways: North-East and Northumbria Police are managing the incident.”

Credit: Michael Walker

UPDATE: 12.41pm

Highways North East said on X “The #A1 in #TyneandWear has re-opened northbound.

The southbound carriageway remains closed between J71 #Whickham and J70 #Dunston following a Police Led Incident.”

UPDATE: 1.40pm:

Highways North East reported on X: “The #A1 in #TyneandWear has re-opened southbound between J71 #Whickham and J70 #Dunston following a Police Led Incident.

Lanes 1 & 2 (of 3) remain closed.

Please allow extra time for your journey. Thank you for your patience.”

UPDATE: 2.50pm

All lanes have reopened on the #A1 southbound between J71 #Whickham and J70 #dunston following an earlier police led incident. Delays clearing well in the area. Have a safe journey, say Highways North East reported on X.