Image: NE Driving Solutions
Evening commuters on the A1 northbound faced severe delays today after a police car caught fire near the Kingston Park roundabout, just before exit 77. The incident, which took place around 6:30 PM, significantly disrupted traffic as emergency services rushed to the scene.
Thick, dark smoke was visible from a distance, with witnesses capturing the dramatic sight as vehicles came to a standstill. Many drivers and passengers were left stranded on the motorway, watching helplessly as the fire consumed the vehicle. A group of onlookers were spotted standing on a nearby bridge, watching the unfolding situation, adding an unusual and almost surreal atmosphere to the incident.
Video: NE Driving Solutions
The cause of the fire remains undetermined, with authorities yet to provide an official explanation. The swift action of fire crews, who arrived on the scene promptly, ensured that the flames were contained before they could spread to other vehicles or the surrounding vegetation.
This incident compounded the frustration for many drivers already dealing with ongoing roadworks to the south. These works have been causing significant delays, and the fire only worsened the evening commute, leaving many stranded for over an hour. The A1, a critical route through Newcastle, is known for its heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours, and the combined impact of the fire and roadworks created gridlock conditions.
The Kingston Park roundabout at junction 77 is a vital junction for traffic heading towards central Newcastle, the airport, and surrounding neighbourhoods. The road closure near this junction, along with the roadworks further south, led to a perfect storm of delays.
Drivers are advised to avoid the area if possible and seek alternative routes until the situation is fully resolved. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the fire and release further information as it becomes available.
This incident highlights the vulnerability of Newcastle’s road network during peak times, especially when unexpected events like vehicle fires occur in conjunction with scheduled road maintenance. For those caught in the chaos, it was an evening of frustration, marked by long delays and an unsettling spectacle.
