James Derrick
Looks like the earliest ground truth change would be 2020, with the consultation docs showing 3 route options (all close to the current), with junction changes just as significant.
A1(M) less likely due to extra costs for motorway design rules (terrain, junctions, vehicle restrictions, etc), and existing Scottish dualling is still A1 as dual carriageway.
Local people remember guaranteed A1 improvement proposals have been cancelled several times, although I tracked the Morpeth bypass consultation for years so suggest we all wait and see!