Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

A1: North Northumberland

15 July 2026 · 1 other contributor

Opened by David Smith Lab North Northumberland

Transport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

David Smith raised concerns about a1: north northumberland in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • MP David Smith raised concerns about safety and infrastructure improvements on the A1 road through North Northumberland, citing numerous accidents and constituent complaints.
  • Minister Simon Lightwood acknowledged the local concerns and noted that while full dualling was not progressing due to cost constraints, significant safety improvements were underway.
  • National Highways has commenced a dedicated safety study and is implementing practical interventions such as improved signs and junctions, vegetation clearance, and speed management measures.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

David Smith Lab North Northumberland

MP David Smith raised concerns about safety and infrastructure improvements on the A1 road through North Northumberland. He highlighted numerous accidents, fatalities, and daily constituent complaints regarding the dangerous conditions of the A1. The MP advocated for dual carriageway upgrades but acknowledged that recent funding constraints have delayed this project. He emphasised the economic impact of improving traffic flow and safety, especially given Northumberland's growing tourism industry. Smith welcomed initial improvements under the Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3) but urged further investment through RIS4.

Other contributors (1)
  • John Lamont Con Dumfries and Galloway

    MP John Lamont supported Smith's concerns, emphasising the A1’s importance for communities in Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. He criticised the cancellation of plans to dual 13 miles of the A1 between Morpeth and Ellingham and urged both UK and Scottish Governments to restore this project and improve safety along the entire route.

Government Response

Simon Lightwood

Minister Simon Lightwood acknowledged the strength of local feeling about A1 safety issues. He explained that while the full dualling scheme from Morpeth to Ellingham was not progressing due to cost constraints, significant work had been undertaken on road safety improvements. National Highways has commenced a dedicated safety study and identified practical interventions like improved signs, junctions, visibility measures, vegetation clearance, speed management, and other enhancements. Lightwood emphasised the £1.8 billion transport investment for the North East between 2027-32, indicating ongoing engagement with local MPs to ensure effective use of funds towards road safety improvements.

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