Flyover demolition junction to reopen

A major road junction is due to reopen after the demolition of the flyover that ran above it, hopefully ending weeks of disruption to drivers, residents and businesses.

The Park Lane roundabout in Gateshead has been shut since 25 July to allow demolition crews to tear down a section of the abandoned road above it.

The junction, which links the Felling Bypass to the Tyne Bridge, is expected to reopen on Friday evening. While an exact time has not been confirmed, it is expected to be after rush hour.

Gateshead Council's strategic director for economy Anneliese Hutchinson said the authority recognised the closure had been "very challenging for everyone".

She said: "It's not been easy for local residents or businesses, but we want to thank everyone for their understanding while the road closure has been in place over these last four weeks."

The council warned that footpaths around Park Lane would not reopen immediately as they were in need of repairs following damage caused during the demolition, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Hutchinson said the demolition "opens up sightlines from the east of Gateshead into the town centre like we've not seen since the 1960s".

The flyover was shut in December 2024 due to structural concerns and its removal is expected to cost more than £30m.

Demolition crews will soon move on to the final standing section of the flyover which runs directly over the underground Tyne and Wear Metro lines.

Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram and listen to Radio Newcastle on BBC Sounds.