A major North Tyneside route is set to undergo further improvements for walking and cycling.
The work, which will get underway this month (November), will see a toucan crossing installed on the A189 Salters Lane, near the Gosforth Nature Reserve.
In addition, the footpath north of Heathery Lane will be extended and the existing crossing point will be upgraded.
It comes after major improvements were carried out along Salters Lane last year.
Funded by the Department for Transport, this included the installation of a continuous footpath and off-road cycle lane, while the bus lane was extended between Haddrick’s Mill and Gosforth Business Park to provide better public transport reliability.
The original scheme always included the potential for further improvements, but only if they could be delivered within the original budget. The original scheme was completed under budget which means these additional works can now be carried out.
The scheme is in line with North Tyneside Council’s Cycling Strategy, aimed at supporting and encouraging the growth of cycling in the borough.
Cllr Carl Johnson, cabinet member for Transport, said: “We’ve already delivered some excellent infrastructure improvements along the A189 Salters Lane, which is a really important route between North Tyneside and Newcastle, so it’s great that we now have funds to do even more.
“These extra improvements will further enhance the uninterrupted route for walking and cycling, which is another positive step in encouraging sustainable travel and lowering carbon emissions.”
North Tyneside’s Cycling Champion Cllr Sarah Day added: “We’re making fantastic progress to increase the number of people getting out on bicycles so it’s vital that we continue to manage this demand and provide a quality cycling network.
“These additional improvements on Salters Lane will help ensure we meet our priorities of making every day cycling simple, safe and direct, and enabling smart choices for all.”
Over the coming months, there may be temporary lane restrictions and/or temporary traffic lights in operation on the A189 Salters’ Lane to facilitate the works. However, the construction team will do all it can to work in a considerate manner – this includes restricting the use of traffic lights to off-peak hours (9.30am-3.30pm).
There may also be times when temporary pedestrian/cyclist diversions are in place to enable the workforce to operate safely and in accordance with social-distancing guidelines. Once again, the team will work with consideration for residents/businesses and will ensure there is adequate on-site signage.
Members of the public are advised to avoid going near the construction operation or staff. The workforce will follow current Covid-19 Public Health England advice and new working procedures specially developed for the construction industry to ensure it operates safely and effectively.
As work progresses, the Council’s Major Projects team will issue e-bulletins at key stages of the works. To subscribe, email roads@northtyneside.gov.uk and use “Salters’ Lane” in the subject line.
The work will be carried out on behalf of North Tyneside Council by Capita as the local authority’s strategic partner, who also carried out major improvements to the A189 Salters’ Lane previously.
For further information, contact the Major Projects team on Tel: (0191) 643 6500, or email roads@northtyneside.gov.uk
