Gateshead Flyover Funding Bids ‘Numerous’ Times Rejected, Council Leader Says

A council leader has stated that previous governments turned down “numerous” applications for funding related to a flyover that has been shut down due to safety issues. On Tuesday, Martin Gannon, the leader of Gateshead Council, indicated that the Department for Transport (DfT) had repeatedly declined his authority’s previous efforts to address the long-term status of the flyover. The A167 Gateshead Highway flyover ceased operations on Friday, following inspectors’ identification of significant issues with one of its concrete support pillars. The Department for Transport (DfT) announced on Monday that it was “ready to work with the council to support them on their next steps”. Mr Gannon stated that “historically,” the council had been aware of a problem with the flyover, leading to “numerous discussions with the DfT, including applications for funding.” He added, “I cannot remember when the last funding application was rejected, but they have all been rejected.” He further noted, “These discussions have been going with the previous government and there are discussions with the current government.” The Labour-led council initially revealed proposals in 2008 to substitute the flyover with a tree-lined boulevard. According to council documents, in 2019, there were intentions to seek government funding for the flyover’s removal; however, the £18 million project did not receive funds from the Highway Maintenance Challenge Fund. Mr Gannon had previously informed BBC Radio Newcastle that the structure might close “permanently” if the pillar proved irreparable, leading to accelerated plans for its demolition. Meanwhile, the council has cordoned off roads situated beneath and next to the flyover, but barriers intended to prevent pedestrians from accessing a part of Sunderland Road were found untied and knocked down on both Monday and Tuesday. The local authority is currently reinforcing the fencing to deter additional unauthorized entry. Additionally, worries have surfaced regarding the Redheugh Bridge, which spans the River Tyne. The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that councillors were informed on Monday that parts of the bridge exhibited structural issues; however, engineers stated they were “comfortable” that there was no immediate threat to public safety.