Temporary traffic regulation orders in Gateshead and Newcastle

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 8, 2026

Newcastle and Gateshead councils have introduced temporary traffic restrictions and infrastructure changes, including no-left-turns on Scotswood Road, an extended bus lane, a new contraflow cycle lane in Newcastle, and road closures in Gateshead for essential repairs. These measures aim to improve traffic flow and safety, with public consultations open until October 30, 2026, and most works expected to cause only short-term disruptions.

Local authorities in Newcastle upon Tyne and Gateshead have announced a series of temporary traffic regulation orders aimed at facilitating roadworks and improving traffic management.

In Newcastle, the City Council plans to implement changes on the A695 Scotswood Road and William Armstrong Drive. A proposed order will prohibit left turns from Scotswood Road into William Armstrong Drive and likewise restrict left turns from William Armstrong Drive onto Scotswood Road. Additionally, an extension of the existing bus lane on William Armstrong Drive is planned, lengthening the westbound nearside bus lane by 120 meters from its junction with Scotswood Road. The bus lane, currently in operation from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, will continue to permit only local buses and pedal cycles during these hours. These changes are scheduled for 2026, with consultation documents and plans available for public review. Residents and stakeholders are invited to submit objections or comments by October 30, 2026.

Also in Newcastle, from November 1, 2026, a contraflow cycle lane will be introduced on Leazes Park Road, extending from its junction with Percy Street to Strawberry Place. This initiative aims to enhance cycling infrastructure within the city.

In Gateshead, two temporary traffic regulation orders came into effect early October to support essential roadworks. The first restricts vehicle access on Axwell Terrace/Napier Street Back in Swalwell starting October 12, 2026, to allow for installation works addressing a defective reinstatement. The closure will affect a nine-meter section and includes no waiting, stopping, or loading restrictions on adjacent roads such as Clavering Road, Napier Road, and Crowley Road. Traffic diversions will be in place for the duration of the works, which are expected to conclude on the same day by 8 p.m.

Separately, on October 11, 2026, a temporary vehicle prohibition will be enforced on a 19-meter stretch of Hexham Old Road in Ryton to enable poly duct installation. This restriction will begin at 8 a.m., with the works anticipated to be completed by 6 p.m. A signed diversion route will be implemented during the closure.

Both Gateshead orders carry a maximum duration of 18 months, although the anticipated completion times suggest minimal long-term disruption.

Authorities have provided contact information and locations where affected parties can access full details of the orders, including maps and statements of purpose. Objections or inquiries should be submitted in writing by the specified deadlines to facilitate timely consideration.

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.