The final section of Gateshead's A167 flyover has been torn down, completing a six-month demolition project. The 1960s structure was shut abruptly in December 2024 over fears it could collapse.
About 30,000 tonnes of concrete and steel have been removed as part of the demolition works. Demolition manager Jim Smith said the project had "its challenges", especially as part of the road was directly above Tyne and Wear Metro tunnels. He called the final day of demolition "momentous".
Cost and Planning
The previous Labour administration set aside £18m for the demolition works. However, costs have climbed to £31m.
Chief executive of Gateshead Council Dale Owens said: "It's a huge milestone for us to actually get the flyover down so that we can redevelop the site for future housing. It's just a very, very complex project. It takes a lot of planning, a lot of infrastructure that we need to protect and that's why its taken us so long to get to this final stage."
What Comes Next
Current council leader Nick Allan, from Reform UK, said: "It does signify the dawn of a new era where we can start now to realise all our plans to develop the economy of Gateshead."
With the loss of a major road through the town, Gateshead Council is looking at the flow of traffic and the future of the route between the Park Lane and Five Bridges roundabouts.
