Drivers face weeks of A1 disruption

DRIVERS face weeks of disruption on the A1 in Est Lothian as improvement works takes place.

The work by BEAR Scotland, Transport Scotland’s operating company, includes a series of slip road closures and added diversions to certain junctions on the westbound (northbound) carriageway of the dual carriageway.

Lane one will be closed from 7.30pm to 6am from Monday to Friday each week, between Abbotsview Junction, near Haddington, and Gladsmuir Junction.

Affected sections include the Abbotsview Junction westbound off-slip, which will be closed from April 1 to 3, and the on-slip from April 4 to 17, excluding weekends.

The Oaktree Junction westbound off-slip will be closed on the night of May 7, while the on-slip will be closed on the night of May 8.

Gladsmuir Junction westbound off-slip will be closed on the nights of June 13 and 14, and the on-slip on the nights of June 21, 24, 25, and 26.

These diversions will, in the main, extend journeys by about five miles and six minutes.

However, the closure affecting traffic entering the A1 westbound at Abbotsview will be considerably longer, adding an estimated 17.2 miles and 16 minutes to journeys.

Tommy Deans, south east network manager at BEAR Scotland, said: “These drainage improvements will improve safety for motorists using the A1 in East Lothian.

“It is essential that we close lanes and slip roads while work takes place next to the carriageway; however, we’ve planned the works to take place overnight to minimise any disruption.

“We’re grateful to road users for their patience and understanding.”

Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times.