Media centre

Thursday 4 Jun 2015

Bridge to remain open to pedestrians in Gateshead as upgrade works begins

Region & Route:

A key bridge in Gateshead will be replaced as Network Rail begins a significant improvement project in the North East.

One section of St James Road bridge, which crosses the railway at Gateshead Stadium station, will be completely removed and replaced in a move that will allow vehicles weighing over 7.5 tonnes to use it, which is currently prohibited. The middle section of the bridge will also be strengthened, refurbished and painted to improve the appearance, while the existing cobbles will be replaced with tarmac across the length of the road surface.

Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the five month project. The bridge will be closed to vehicles between Monday 15 June and Friday 2 October, with signposted diversionary routes in place.

To protect the safety of the public, passengers and employees, some of the works will take place on the bridge during the night and over weekends when trains are not running.

Mark Tarry, route managing director for Network Rail, said: “The improvements to St James Road bridge will mean it can remain a key crossing point for the public and those visiting Gateshead International Stadium for many years to come.

“I am pleased that having worked with Gateshead Council we will be able to maintain safe pedestrian access throughout the work which will help keep disruption to a minimum for our lineside neighbours and the general public.”

Raymond Johnstone, Director of Rail and Infrastructure for Nexus, said: “The bridge spans both Network Rail lines and Metro lines so replacing it will benefit all local rail users.   We’ve worked closely with Network Rail in planning these works, in order to make sure Metro passengers can get to and from Gateshead Stadium station throughout the project.” 

A drop-in session for local residents and media will take place at the site offices on Monday 8 June between 6.30pm and 8.30pm, where members of the project team will be on hand to provide further information about the project.

The bridge is due to reopen fully in November.

Notes to editors

• If members of the public have additional queries they should contact the 24-hour national help line on 03457 11 41 41 or visit networkrail.co.uk