A North East council has confirmed a busy North East road will remain closed as work continues to remove an industrial pipe.

Middlesbrough Council confirmed a section of the A66 in North Ormesby will remain shut as work to remove a 40 tonne industrial pipe which fell from a lorry on Wednesday continues.

The incident on the westbound carriageway of the busy route happened on Wednesday afternoon just past the North Ormesby junction.

Traffic management systems are still in place to divert traffic while the work is carried out.

A Middlesbrough Council spokesman said: “This is a complex operation and this section of the westbound carriageway of the A66 is therefore likely to be closed for a number of days.

“A crane will be used to lift the section of pipe, before repairs can be carried out to the carriageway.

“Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible until further notice, and we apologise for any inconvenience.”

The council said the operation may also require the temporary closure of the eastbound carriageway.

Additionally, work to repair the damaged road surface will be carried before it can re-open.

The authority said further updates will be provided via its website and social media channels.

Cleveland Police and Middlesbrough Council’s Highways team have been at the scene.

A spokesperson for Cleveland Police said: “The A66 westbound is closed between Cargo Fleet Lane and North Ormesby in Middlesbrough due to concrete falling into the road from a lorry and causing damage.

“Please avoid the area and use alternative routes.”