Full Breakdown
Gateshead A167 Flyover Demolition Completed
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Demolition Completed
The final section of the 1960s-era A167 flyover in Gateshead was taken down on 29 September 2026, ending a six-month demolition effort that began after the structure was closed in December 2024. Demolition manager Jim Smith noted the work was complicated by the flyover’s proximity to Tyne and Wear Metro tunnels and estimated that roughly 30,000 tonnes of concrete and steel were removed. He described the last day of demolition as “momentous.”
Background & Funding
The project was initially budgeted at £18 million under the previous Labour administration, with a £2.5 million contribution from the then-North East Combined Authority. Subsequent reporting by the Local Democracy Reporting Service indicated total costs had risen to £31 million. Gateshead Council is now seeking additional investment, including £100 million from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority and £60 million from the Department for Transport, to support broader road improvements and redevelopment of the former flyover site.
Timeline of Works
- 16 April 2026 – Central section of the flyover demolition began.
- 25 July 2026 – Demolition of the Five Bridges roundabout completed.
- 21 August 2026 – Demolition of the Park Lane roundabout completed.
- 23 September 2026 – 27 of the 29 spans removed.
- 29 September 2026 – Final span demolished, marking the end of the project.
Official Statements & Future Plans
He added that the area will be “totally transformed” through projects such as the Quays development, new leisure facilities, and an extended Quayside promenade to the High Street. The council’s chief executive confirmed plans to provide new town-centre homes for former tenants of the evacuated Priory Court tower block and to deliver 1,100 new homes—mixing social and private housing—alongside an Extra Care Scheme for older residents. A major traffic survey is underway, with results expected later this year, and public consultation on the site’s future will begin in the coming months.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It does signify the dawn of a new era where we can start now to realise all our plans to develop the economy of Gateshead.” — Nick Allan
- “Gateshead is going to be totally transformed by the plans we have. Starting with Quays development, the leisure facilities, and the extensions to the walk on the Quayside up to the High Street, where we will be developing the Northern End.” — Nick Allan