Tynemouth to Whitley Bay 'social distancing' cycle path revised

Nearly 7,000 people have urged the council to scrap its changes to the road network

A busy stretch of coastal road, which has been partly turned into a cycle lane, has reopened to traffic following an outcry from fed-up residents.

The southbound carriageway between Tynemouth and Whitley Bay has been closed to allow social distancing on the promenade and more cyclists.

North Tyneside Council has reopened both lanes to vehicles outside Spanish City only. Other restrictions remain.

It comes as nearly 7,000 people signed a petition citing traffic chaos.

That led to a counter petition, of more than 1,200 signatures, calling for the two-way cycle lanes to be made permanent.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said that some residents complained that the one-way road system led to "rat runs" and congestion in side streets, and some businesses have said it has resulted in a loss of trade.

While the rest of the road will remain restricted to traffic, the stretch between Park Avenue and Marine Avenue, has reverted back to normal. The cycle lane has been moved on to the shared path on the seafront side.

Paul Mackings, chairman of Kymel Trading, which operates Spanish City, said road changes were driving visitors away from the attraction.

"There is a lot of anguish around Whitley Bay at the moment," he said.

"I understand what the council is trying to achieve but there is absolute mayhem down there."

North Tyneside Council said that by reinstating two-way traffic on the road outside Spanish City, it would "alleviate some of the issues."

It previously said the temporary changes reflected a significant increase in cycling and walking, and were aimed at "creating more space to keep people safe and allow them to social distance".

The local authority added it would also "support businesses by giving shoppers the confidence to return to busy places".