FAQs
How are the schemes funded?
The schemes have a funding allocation from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority (North East MSA) through the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS). North Tyneside Council successfully secured this funding specifically to deliver improvements for walking, wheeling and cycling and related public realm.
Can the money be spent on something else?
No. The funding has been awarded specifically for sustainable transport and active travel improvements. It cannot be redirected to other Council services or projects. If the scheme does not proceed, the funding would not be available.
What engagement has been carried out with residents, businesses and stakeholders on the West Street proposals ?
Residents living on West Street between Devonshire Gardens and North Road have been contacted and invited to comment on the proposals. Local stakeholders, including Hadrian House, Lindisfarne Social Club, Centurion Park Golf Club, Western Community Primary School and businesses in Wallsend Town Centre, have also been informed and invited to provide feedback.
Why are only targeted improvements being made on the High Street?
There is not sufficient funding in the current allocation to deliver a full refurbishment of the entire High Street. Therefore, the project focuses on areas where targeted improvements will have the greatest benefit, improving the appearance, accessibility and functionality of key locations within the available budget. The Council is in discussion with the North East Mayoral; Strategic Authority to secure further funding allocations to extend improvements along the High Street and to other areas in and around the town centre.
Will the design change following consultation?
The consultation is an opportunity for residents, businesses and others to provide feedback on the proposals. All comments and suggestions received will be carefully reviewed and considered during the development of the final designs. It may not however be possible to incorporate all the suggestions made.
Any changes made as a result of the feedback will be reported through the "You Said, We Did" hub.
Will there be any further consultation on the revised proposals?
Some of the proposals, for example in West Street, will require statutory approvals such as Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs). There is a separate legal process and consultation required for TROs before they can be introduced. There may also, depending on the outcome of the consultation, be further localised engagement with residents, businesses and landowners about some of the proposals.
Do the proposals take account of anti-social behaviour and crime?
The draft designs for the Forum Square have been produced with input from the Police and the Council’s community safety team. This will help ensure that the materials selected for seating and other street furniture are robust and that the square’s CCTV coverage continues, with no blind spots.
Why is the Authority introducing new cycle routes across the Borough?
The Council is committed to making it easier and safer for people to travel sustainably. Walking, wheeling and cycling can improve health, reduce congestion, support the local economy and help reduce carbon emissions. Improved cycling infrastructure also makes it easier for people of all ages and abilities to choose active travel for everyday journeys. Where there is enough space segregated cycleways can be introduced, as in West Street. If this is not possible other interventions are introduced to make it easier and safer for cyclists and pedestrians to move around, this can include signage, traffic signals and traffic calming measures.
When will construction begin?
The current programme anticipates construction commencing in 2027, subject to the outcome of consultation, detailed design work, required approvals and funding requirements.