Temporary footpath closure in Gateshead for sewer construction works

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 8, 2026

The Borough Council of Gateshead will implement several temporary pedestrian footpath and road closures starting October 12 and 15, 2026, to allow sewer construction, gas mains replacement, BT infrastructure work, and telegraph pole replacement. These measures, lasting from one day to up to 18 months depending on the site, include signed diversions to maintain safety and manage traffic while critical infrastructure improvements are completed.

The Borough Council of Gateshead has issued several temporary traffic regulation orders set to take effect in October 2026 to facilitate various infrastructure works across the area.

Starting on October 12, pedestrians will be temporarily prohibited from using a footpath on Gladeley Way in Sunniside. The closure affects a section beginning 4.1 metres southeast of No. 37 Gladeley Way, extending northeast for 18 metres. This restriction is necessary to enable major sewer construction works. The council has indicated that while the closure could last up to six months, the work is expected to be completed by January 31, 2027. A signed diversion will be in place to guide pedestrians during the closure.

Similarly, on the same date, a footpath near No. 31 Greystoke Gardens in Harlow Green will also be closed to pedestrians. This closure covers a 59-metre stretch heading southeast from the property to facilitate gas mains replacement. The temporary prohibition is expected to last up to six months but likely to end by October 30, 2026. Pedestrian access will be managed via diversion routes while the works are ongoing.

Another footpath closure will take place on Hartside in Birtley, also starting October 12 at 9:30 a.m. This closure affects a 45-metre section northwards from a point four metres south of No. 24 Hartside. The restriction is intended to allow work on an underground British Telecom (BT) structure. Unlike the other closures, this one is expected to be completed within the same day, by 3:30 p.m., and a signed diversion will be provided to manage pedestrian flow.

In addition to footpath closures, a temporary road closure will occur on Meldon Terrace in Greenside beginning October 15. Vehicles will be prohibited from traveling on a 19-metre section of road extending southwest from a point 88 metres north of its junction with Orchard Court. This restriction supports the replacement of an existing telegraph pole. While the closure may extend up to 18 months, the works are anticipated to be finished by October 16, 2026. During this period, traffic diversions will guide motorists around the affected area.

In all cases, exceptions are made for operatives involved in the respective works and emergency service personnel. The Council’s Chief Legal Officer, A Simmons-Mather, has confirmed that signage will be in place to indicate the restrictions and diversion routes, and the measures are implemented under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984. These temporary closures are intended to ensure public safety while essential infrastructure upgrades are carried out in Gateshead.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.