Statistics from Northumbria Police show that during September, 327 drivers were caught breaching the speed limits set up around the Boldon works as they headed northbound, while 841 were captured breaking the restrictions on the southbound carriageway.

In October, the number of those caught on the northbound road stood at 1,663, while a further 328 were caught on the southbound road, a Freedom of Information request showed.

Northumbria Police, which is responsible for enforcing speed limits, said the cameras were tested during July and August before they went ‘live’ and recorded offences.

The Highways Agency set up the average camera system around Testo's during the summer.

The cameras were set up as part project to transform the roundabout, with the level of the A19 to be raised and a new interchange created beneath the flyover.

It will also see the Downhill junction upgraded, with the whole scheme aimed at improving journeys for motorists and help handle increased traffic levels in years to come.

The work, which could cost up to £159.4 million, started in March, with the average speed cameras put in place towards the end of July.

Highways England has confirmed the network of 14 cameras was tested during August “to ensure they were recording accurate speeds and were fully operational in September.”

A total of 14 average speed cameras have been set up around Testo's roundabout as part of the A19 junction upgrade.

A spokesperson for Highways England said: “The work we’re currently carrying out on the A19 will reduce congestion and improve journeys.

“During the roadworks the speed limit has been reduced to 40mph on the A19 while we are carrying out work to upgrade the Testo’s Roundabout.

“Safety is our top priority and speed cameras are for making journeys safer while narrow lanes are in place and creating a safe working environment for our workers

“We would like to thank those drivers who are observing the temporary limit on this section of the road.

How the finished project will look, according to Highways England.

“The cameras will be in place until the end of scheme which is on schedule to be completed by summer 2021.”

The department has pointed out the cameras are clearly signposted and visible to motorists and are bright yellow for visibility.

Figures released by Northumbria Police as part of a Freedom of Information request shows how many drivers were caught by the average speed cameras on the A19 during the first two months they were operational.

Work is scheduled to go on until 2021 as Testo's Roundabout and Downhill Junction are upgraded.

This is how many drivers were caught by the A19 average speed cameras