Plea to move skatepark from under doomed flyover

Regulars at a skatepark that has been popular since the 1980s say they hope it can be at least partly relocated ahead of planned demolition works.

The Five Bridges skatepark, located under the doomed A167 Gateshead Highway flyover, is set to be removed as part of an £18m works by Gateshead Council.

Skaters have been unable to use the space since August, when the condemned flyover above was shut down over fears loose concrete could collapse.

Gateshead Council previously said it would work to "find skaters a new home", but many believe the historical significance of the skatepark justifies saving some of its features.

Skater Jackie Young said: "Some of the biggest skateboarders worldwide have travelled to skate under that grotty flyover in Gateshead."