NATIONAL Highways have issued details of a diversion in place as the A19 Southbound near Middlesbrough remains closed following a crash.

The collision took place around 12:30am this morning as officers were in pursuit of a black Audi which drove down a slip road in the wrong direction and collided with a Peugeot 208.

The driver of the 208 was taken to hospital for treatment, and injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

Read more: Four men arrested after crash on A19 near Middlesbrough

The 31-year-old driver of the Audi was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and drug driving and is in police custody. Three other men, aged 37, 34, and 22, who were passengers in the car were also arrested in connection with the incident.

A 39-year-old man, who was also a passenger in the vehicle has been taken to hospital with non-life-threatening leg injuries.

Road diversions are in place for the A19 and drivers are being asked to allow for a longer journey time if possible.

National Highways is advising road users to follow the solid circle diversion symbol on road signs: Exit the A19 southbound at the Portrack interchange and take the 1st exit at the roundabout onto the A1046.

  • Immediately at the second roundabout take the 3rd exit onto the A1032 heading south.
  • Follow the A1032 to the Newport interchange and at the roundabout take the 3rd exit to continue on the A1032.
  • Continue on the A1032 to the junction with the A1130 and turn right onto the A1130 Levick Crescent.
  • Follow the A1130 back to the A19 and and take the 1st exit onto the A19 southbound to continue your journey.

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A spokesperson said: "If this closure impacts on your planned route, please allow extra journey time. Plan ahead, you may wish to re-route or even delay your journey."

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