Connection Testos

What is happening?

We are proposing to improve the A19 by constructing a flyover to take the A19 over the Testos junction. Entry and exit slip roads will connect the A19 to the new roundabout, requiring a slightly larger roundabout than is currently in place.

Under the Highways Agency’s current preferred option for the improvement the A19 carriageway will move slightly to the west and will be raised above ground on an embankment. This will carry it over the roundabout via two bridges. Traffic to and from the north at Downhill Lane Junction will be linked via new parallel connector roads to the new south facing slip roads at Testos Junction.

When and where is this happening?

The Testos junction connects the A19 and the A184, south of Newcastle. It is of both local and regional importance providing links between Tyneside, Wearside, East Durham and Teeside. The A19 is a strategic route that provides an alternative to the A1 between North Yorkshire and North Tyneside.

In the 2013 Autumn Statement, the Minister announced the A19 Testo’s Junction Improvement as a potential scheme to be developed further.

Why is this happening and what will it cost?

In 2001 traffic signals were installed at the junction, which reduced congestion and improved safety. The traffic signals were subsequently renewed in 2012, with the high friction surfacing being replaced at the same time. The current junction handles around 80,000 vehicles per day and is often congested especially during rush hour periods. Expected growth in traffic means that the roundabout will become a bottleneck, resulting in longer delays and more severe congestion, increasing driver frustration.

How will the scheme be carried out?

This scheme has not been approved to move forward to construction so we do not yet have information about how this scheme would be carried out.

What are the benefits?

The objectives of the scheme are to: