Residents in Gateshead are voicing frustration over the state of local infrastructure as major repair projects and road closures continue to affect daily travel. Concerns centre on the long-term closure of the A167 Gateshead Highway flyover and ongoing maintenance on the historic Tyne Bridge, prompting questions about how Gateshead Council prioritises its road network.
The A167 flyover was shut down in December 2024 after safety inspections revealed that the concrete pillars supporting the 1960s structure were crumbling. Before its closure, the route served approximately 40,000 vehicles every day. Martin Gannon, leader of the council, has been critical of the flyover’s history, describing it as a road that goes from nowhere to nowhere. Plans for the demolition of the structure are beginning in April 2026.
Meanwhile, commuters continue to face disruption on the Tyne Bridge as it undergoes a multi-million-pound restoration programme. The work, which requires single-lane closures to allow for repairs, is expected to continue through 2026, with the project set for completion by 2028. This follows wider efforts to address local road conditions, as the council manages a backlog of maintenance across 123km of unclassified roads.
To tackle the ongoing need for repairs, the council has integrated a specialised road-fixing machine into its operations. This is part of a broader five-year, £7.7m investment plan that includes an annual £2m budget specifically for street improvements. Local authorities are also pursuing other transport projects, such as the Active Travel Centre in Birtley and proposed improvements for cycling infrastructure along Birtley High Street.
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