Flyover closed over 'potential risk to safety'

Engineers say the concrete of the 1960s structure is showing signs of deterioration

A flyover has been closed after engineers found a "potential risk to safety".

An inspection of the A167 Gateshead Highway flyover, which also carries traffic towards the Tyne Bridge, resulted in "serious concerns" about sections of the 1960s-built structure.

The road beneath it, between the Park Lane and the Five Bridges roundabout, is also closed.

Martin Gannon, leader of Gateshead Council, said: "It is a big decision, and we recognise the impact this will have on the transport network across the whole area."

Inspections found "serious concerns" about the safety of the 1960s structure

"Public safety has to be our top priority, and so we have acted to shut down the highway immediately," he added.

The two roundabouts below the flyover will remain open, after engineers confirmed it was safe, allowing traffic to continue east/west and access between the A184 Felling bypass and the Tyne Bridge, and to the A1.

The council said the flyover had been regularly inspected and engineers previously judged that, while the concrete was showing signs of deterioration, it could still be safely used.

However, it said that was no longer the case, after an inspection by consultant structural engineers during the week "indicated a potential risk to safety if it remains open."

The road beneath the flyover between Park Lane and the Five Bridges roundabout will also be closed

"The engineers make clear there is a risk to certain sections of the structure, and hence a risk to the travelling public," Gannon said.

Further inspection checks are due on Sunday and Monday, and the council said it would try to "minimise disruption as far as possible".

Diversions are in place and drivers are being advised to use alternative routes or public transport.