Drivers are being warned of potential traffic delays for up to four years as work on a major bridge begins this week.
From April 2, lane restrictions will be in place on the Tyne Bridge between Newcastle and Gateshead, which normally carries 70,000 vehicles per day.
With the new restrictions in place, it is expected that the major route will see capacity halved as the vital restoration of the iconic bridge takes place.
Inspection work in 2022 found that steel work on the bridge had corroded in addition to peeling paintwork, damaged joints, leaking drains and damage to the road surface and pavements.
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Delays could be present on the road and bridge for around four years
PA
The restoration of the Tyne Bridge will take place over four years and is expected to involve more than 900 repairs.
It will see lane restrictions in place for at least two years, with further temporary lane closures and overnight closures scheduled to take place over the remaining two years.
Pamela Holmes, assistant director of transport at Newcastle City Council, called on motorists in and around the area to be aware of the potential delays over the coming years.
She said: “We are fully aware of how disruptive this restoration programme will be for the travelling public and we’ve done a lot of engagement with residents, businesses and employers in the run-up to the work starting.
“This is so people are aware that this is a four-year refurbishment programme and lane restrictions will be in place for a number of years.”
The work is taking place over the Easter holidays to limit the impact on traffic, although Newcastle City Council acknowledged that delays would be likely once traffic levels return to normal.
It warned that congestion was likely and motorists could face delays of up to 40 minutes at peak travel times.
Holmes added: “People need to plan their journeys, think about alternatives, whether they take public transport, or active travel options such as walking or cycling, or use the many park and ride facilities available.
“All the travel advice is available on our Tyne Bridge restoration website but people need to plan ahead and allow more time for their journeys as this restoration programme to preserve the bridge for future generations gets underway.”
Heavy congestion is expected on the Quayside route, Swing Bridge and routes to and from Redheugh Bridge and all approaches to the Tyne Bridge from both Newcastle and Gateshead sides.
Drivers are being urged to plan ahead, allow more time for their journeys and expect delays when travelling in and around the city.
The restoration, which is expected to cost around £32million, is “well overdue”, according to Newcastle City Council.
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Repair work on the Tyne Bridge has already started
PA
The Grade II listed bridge was last refurbished and painted in 2001, with repair work being “urgently required”.
