INSUFFICIENT warning has been given in relation an upcoming closure of the A66, according to a Darlington councillor.

Work is set to begin on repairing the Grade II-listed Blackwell Bridge after it was damaged by a HGV recently.

Repair work will begin on Monday, August 3 and is expected to be completed by Monday, August 24.

As a result, the A66 Bridge Road will be closed overnight on Sunday, August 2 between Blackwell roundabout, near Stapleton, and Blands Corner while the A66(M) will be closed eastbound from the A1(M) towards Darlington.

The roads will be closed between 8am and 6am to lay out traffic management, though a spokeswoman for Highways England said they may be closed for a second night to allow removal of the same at the end of the works.

During the three weeks of day-time repairs, Bridge Road will remain fully open to traffic in both directions.

Councillor Heather Scott says not enough notice was given to those affected.

She said: “I am concerned at the short notice regarding this closure and the lack of signs warning drivers.

“If residents are away on holiday and return at the weekend they may not be able to access their properties.

“This must have been programmed for some time and I fail to understand why more warning could not have been given.

“I hope the emergency services have time to organise alternative travel plans as both police and ambulances uses this road on a regular basis for the access to the A1 motorway.”

A spokesperson for Highways England said the work was essential, access will be maintained for the emergency services and that all residents affected have been given a number to call to be escorted through the roadworks.