Gateways

A gateway improvement is a highway-focussed project aimed at improving the entrance to an area. They aim to enhance the image and quality of the public spaces as you enter a town.

Three gateway locations were identified in the North Shields Masterplan as requiring enhancements to better define the town and provide improved transport infrastructure while enhancing the adjacent public space. Each gateway proposal aims to address different transport issues whilst attempting to bring continuity in terms of the look and feel of the town’s entrances.

Located at the Albion Road / Stephenson Street junction, the enhancement works aim to improve sustainable travel links in North Shields town centre.

Gateway 1 will provide a visual indicator to traffic travelling from the east (Tynemouth) that they are entering North Shields and are encouraged to respect the presence of non-motorised users in this environment.

Please see letter below for further information on what this scheme entails.

Gateway 2 aims to provide a visual link between the Fish Quay quarter and the coastal active travel routes to the east of North Shields. The road circulating Fiddlers Green will become one-way to improve safety when crossing, retain parking, and maintain servicing access to the Quay.

The enhancements will include:

• Improved connectivity between North Shields Promenade and the Fish Quay for pedestrians and cyclists
• A new raised crossing/traffic calming measure between Fiddlers Green and the Fish Quay footpath
• Cycle provision will run along the southern perimeter to segregate it from pedestrians with improved crossings at both ends
• Fiddlers Green will be landscaped with a wide footpath through the centre, seating, an art installation and an area that could be used for small-scale events

Gateway 3 is located at the five-arm roundabout on the A187 that connects westbound lane of Prudhoe Street to Trinity Terrace on the south side of the junction.

Works to make this gateway easier and safer to use are now complete using funding secured from the government’s Highways Maintenance Challenge Fund to improve this key route into the town centre, including:

• Installing a new circular central island to help the roundabout function more effectively
• Relocating and installing safer and more accessible pedestrian and cyclist crossing points
• Extending the pedestrian guardrail
• Improving drainage by installing new gullies
• Resurfacing the roundabout and its arms

There are future plans to further enhance this gateway through planting areas and an art installation to emphasise to all highway users that the location is a gateway to the town.