A1 blocked after tractor crashes into Beal level-crossing barriers

Author: Ally McGilvrayPublished 21st Aug 2024
Last updated 21st Aug 2024

Motorists travelling to and from the Holy Island are facing long tailbacks.

It follows reports of a tractor striking the barrier at Beal level-crossing.

The last safe-crossing time ended at 2.20pm, with the tidal causeway next clear between 9.05pm and 2.25am.

Rail services on the East Coast Main Line are also affected, with operator LNER reporting delays of up to 20 minutes between Berwick and Newcastle.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: “We are working with emergency services to clear a backlog of traffic following an incident earlier where a tractor struck a barrier at a level crossing in Beal.

“Engineers responded to site shortly after and have now repaired the barrier, trains are being cautioned through the area while emergency services work to clear the traffic.”

Police are in attendance, and motorists are being urged to avoid the area.

READ MORE: Road safety improvements driven forward at scene of bin lorry tragedy in the Scottish Borders

A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "We're currently in attendance at a report of a barrier fault with Beal Level Crossing by the Holy Island.

"We're at the scene with partners to help direct traffic and would ask motorists to avoid travelling towards the area in the meantime."

Traffic on the A1, between Haggerston Holiday Park and Fenwick, was blocked following the incident.

A spokesperson for Northumberland County Council said: "There has been an incident at Beal Level crossing near Holy Island where a vehicle has hit the barriers, causing large tailbacks.

"Police are in attendance but please avoid the area at this time if possible."

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