Road closures could affect travel in north Newcastle for up to 9 months

Councillors have just been informed that the letter below wll go to residents directly affected, probably today. But of course the ripple-back will have an impact over a far wider area. So dust off your contingency travel plans (including considering whether you can use public transport or cycle, especially during the summer)

Temporary closures at Killingworth Road, Salters Bridge, Hollywood Avenue and Castles Farm Road Bridge, between Matthew Bank and Castle Farm Mews.

I am writing to update you on our plans for the temporary closure of Killingworth Road to all modes of transport (including pedestrians and cyclists) and both Salters Bridge and Castle Farm Road Bridge to vehicles, during the forthcoming work to replace the Killingworth Road Metro Bridge and the subsequent widening of Killingworth Road towards Haddricks Mill.

The closure of Killingworth Road is required to protect the public during the replacement of the Metro Bridge and the subsequent diversion of gas mains in the area as well as to facilitate the road widening scheme.

The complementary road closures at Salters and Castles farm Bridge, are required to mitigate against rat-running traffic using adjacent routes that are considered to be unsuitable for the expected increased traffic.

Please note that the bridge closures are for motor vehicles, the routes will remain open to cyclists and pedestrians.

The legal order will start from 20th July 2017 and will last for up to 9 months, although it is anticipated that the works will be completed by the end of February 2018.

The restrictions will be in operation when the relevant signs are displayed. [Previous sign at Salters Bridge for example]

All appropriate diversion signs and advance warning signs will be placed on the adjacent highway network.

More information about the Metro Bridge replacement, the road widening scheme, temporary road closures and mitigation measures can be found at www.newcastle.gov.uk/roads