ChronicleLive is launching a campaign to dual the A1 in Northumberland, stepping up a long-running effort by its print titles, The Journal and Chronicle, that has spanned more than 30 years. The call comes after a series of tragic accidents on the road, which remains the only section of the main London-to-Edinburgh route with single carriageway stretches.
Decades of Inaction and Recent Tragedies
Successive governments have failed to upgrade the road in Northumberland, despite pledges. The previous government did not deliver dualling during its 14 years in office. The current government cancelled the scheme shortly after the 2024 General Election, citing poor value for taxpayers' money. Official figures show 49 fatal accidents on the A1 in Northumberland in the 20-year period up to the start of this year, with three recent crashes adding six more fatalities.
Coalition Calls for Rethink
ChronicleLive has brought together a coalition of politicians, community leaders, and business figures to demand a re-examination of the decision. Northumberland County Council leader Glen Sanderson and North East mayor Kim McGuinness wrote to the government after the recent incidents, calling the fatalities “tragic and totally unacceptable” and arguing that smaller safety schemes are insufficient.
Economic Pressures and Cross-Party Support
The county's growing tourism sector, the booming offshore energy industry at Blyth, and the data centre being built at Cambois have increased the need for better infrastructure. The road's shortcomings also force traffic onto villages used as “rat runs” when the A1 is blocked. Cross-party support has come from Conservative, Labour, Lib Dem, and independent councillors, as well as the North East Chamber of Commerce, Newcastle Airport, and the Bishop of Newcastle.
Public Petition Launched
ChronicleLive has set up a petition at www.change.org/p/re-examine-the-case-for-dualling-the-a1-in-northumberland for the public to show support. The campaign aims to pressure the government to reverse its cancellation and prioritise safety and economic development on this vital route.
