Real reasons for A19 problems

I WONDER if the local MPs’ views of the problems on the A19 really address the issue.

To me there appears to be an obvious correlation between the increase of accidents on the A19 and the extensive works on the Western Bypass and the opening of the second Tyne Tunnel.

This caused an increase in traffic, especially commercial where time is of the essence, to the A19. The problem will become worse when the dualling of the carriageway of the A1 to the Scottish border is finished, which will attract much traffic from the overcrowded M6.

The increase on the A19 was causing delays at the Silverlink junction which are now far worse as the massive alterations take place. There were also delays south of the tunnels as road realignments were put in place.

Such long delays cause some drivers to change their behaviour and to drive recklessly, causing accidents.

I don’t think increasing the number of traffic police will solve the problem as they cannot be in every place at once.

May I suggest that traffic monitoring cameras are placed at the traffic blackspots so that the behaviour of all drivers can be monitored from a control room and offending drivers be dealt with appropriately.

Roadside signs advising that traffic cameras are monitoring drivers (not speed cameras) may calm some drivers down.

Finally, with much development due to take place west of Newcastle/Gateshead which will increase the demand for the Western Bypass, serious thought should be given to a western Ring Road joining the A1 about, say, 10 miles north and south of Newcastle.

And how about sorting out the problem at the Gateshead end of the Tyne Bridge? BRIAN TAYLOR, North Shields