Cycle lanes and public space improvement project costing £2.7m on Bridge Street in Blyth will begin later this year

The project, expected to take until winter 2024, will be completed in phases and access to businesses and bus stops on the street will be maintained throughout, but there will be some diversions around closed roads and footpaths.

The objective of the works is to improve pedestrian and cycling routes through the town centre, and connect the street to existing cycle paths.

Businesses on the street will be contacted by the council prior to work commencing. There is also a drop-in event for members of the public to learn more about the scheme, and other Blyth projects, on Thursday, July 27 between 2pm and 7pm in Keel Row Shopping Centre.

Councillor Wojciech Ploszaj, cabinet member for business, said: “The improvements to the area will make the whole area feel more welcoming, safe, and accessible for all to boost trade in the town centre, connecting the town centre more effectively with the quayside offer.

“The scheme includes new areas of enhanced public realm and greenery enhancing the historic character of the street, traffic calming measures including safer crossing points, and a dedicated area for a taxi rank in the centre of town, alongside a new cycle route.

“Together with the major investment on Market Place this investment will help us to transform the town for everyone’s benefit.”

The project is part of the £90m Energising Blyth regeneration programme, alongside the culture hub project and Market Place improvements due to break ground this summer.

Mayor Warren Taylor of Blyth Town Council said: “The town council welcomes the improvements coming to Bridge Street.

“The unveiling of these designs represents just one in a series of ongoing developments which will help transform our town, bringing long term benefits to all who use it.”

Local ward county councillor Kath Nisbet added: “Bridge Street is an important part of the town centre and it is great to see improvements will be getting underway later this year to boost the area.

“Thank you in advance to everyone in the area for their support while the works are done.”

Blyth Valley MP Ian Levy said: “I am really pleased to see that the Council are just about to start these works transforming Bridge Street.

"The £90m Energising Blyth war chest to regenerate Blyth will really make a difference and I am proud to have played my part in securing this funding.

"Step by step we are really making a difference with projects like the Bowes Street improvements, the Culture Hub in the Market Place, the Energy Central Learning Hub, Gilbert Ward Academy, the Northumberland Line, and much more besides.”