A BUSY stretch of the A1 will be closed for three nights while road improvements are carried out.

Transport Scotland’s operating company, BEAR Scotland, is carrying out 10 nights of resurfacing works from Monday (March 11).

The first set of works are from Ayton Junction to Tower Farm Junction in the Scottish Borders, from March 11 to 20. From March 20 to 22, works will be carried out on the westbound (northbound) carriageway near Haddington.

The westbound stretch of road will be closed at the Abbotsview Junction at Haddington and a diversion will be signposted between the junction and Bankton Junction. The diversion is estimated to add two miles, or eight minutes, to journeys.

Both sets of works take place from 7.30pm to 6am each night.

Emergency services will be given access through the works at all times and local access for residents within the closure points will be maintained when it is safe to pass through the work area.

Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s south east network manager, said: “These surfacing improvements will help to address the defects on this section of the A1 and will greatly improve the experience for motorists.

“It is essential for safety that we close the road during these works; however, we’ve arranged for the project to take place overnight to minimise the impact.

“We thank motorists and the local community in advance for their patience and understanding.

“We’ll do all we can to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible.”

All work is weather dependent and subject to postponement or cancellation in the event of adverse conditions.