A COLLAPSED section of the A66 in Middlesbrough caused traffic chaos this morning (Friday, October 31).

A problem was discovered with an inspection chamber on the eastbound lane of the busy dual carriageway overnight.

The A66 eastbound carriageway was fully closed at Hartington Interchange until 1pm today while emergency repairs were carried out to a damaged inspection chamber cover.

Diversions were in place until that time, when at that point the off-side lane was re-opened.

The road is expected was fully re-opened by about 3.30pm.

The incident is the latest problem faced by motorists as it came just days after Newport Bridge was reopened to traffic after months of delays were caused by its closure.

A Middlesbrough Council spokesman said: “An inspection chamber cover on the A66 eastbound at Hartington Interchange collapsed overnight, requiring the closure of the nearside lane.

“The extent of the necessary repair work is currently being assessed, but any remedial works will require a full closure of the eastbound carriageway at Hartington Interchange.

“The closure was implemented after 9.30am following the morning rush hour, with a diversion via the eastbound exit and entry slip road at Hartington Interchange.”