Work has begun to build the second section of a new high quality, five-mile walking, wheeling and cycling route along the beautiful North Tyneside coast.
The first section of the Tynemouth to St Mary's route opened in July. Phase Two will complete the new five mile route.
The £11 million ‘Seafront Sustainable Route’ project from Tynemouth to St Mary’s lighthouse is led by North Tyneside Council, with funding through our Paths for Everyone programme and Active Travel England.
The local community were actively involved in the scheme from the start.
In July 2024 local people celebrated the opening of the first section, which is part of National Cycle Network route 1, from Tynemouth Front Street to the Aquarium.
The next phase of work sees the improved route extending to St Mary’s Lighthouse in Whitley Bay.
The new route features separate foot and cycle paths which create a safer, accessible, and attractive space for people on foot, bicycle or using a mobility aid.
The new improved Route 1 on the National Cycle Network is part of of work across the UK to create accessible paths for everyone to enjoy. PHOTO: Mark Savage/Sustrans
In the first phase construction company capita upgraded 1.7km of footpaths, built a segregated cycle route, resurfaced 1.8km of road, built 10 new zebra crossings, and 50 new cycle parking spaces.
A 20mph speed limit was introduced to ensure safer and more enjoyable travel along the scenic coastal stretch.
In the second phase Capita will extend the dedicated spaces for people walking, cycling, and using a mobility aid, including resurfaced roads and footpaths.
We worked with the local community and the Council to help make the route route permanent. PHOTO: Mark Savage/Sustrans.
Grassroots action
Local people campaigned for an accessible, separated walking and cycling route between Tynemouth and St Mary’s since 2020, after a popular temporary pop up scheme was dismantled.
Sustrans worked with the community to help develop the scheme and access funding.
As well as helping improve transport options, funders expect the new route will boost the appeal of the award-winning seafront, attract more visitors, and support local businesses and attractions.
The new route is safer for all ages and abilities to walk, cycle or use a mobility aid. PHOTO: Mark Savage/Sustrans.
Rosslyn Colderley, our Director in the North of England said:
“This is a fantastic example of how the local community led the campaign for a permanent, safe traffic-free route for walking, wheeling and cycling and were actively involved in the design process.
“The new segregated path makes it practical and enjoyable for many more people of all ages and abilities to make healthier, greener journeys to school, work or for leisure.
“We anticipate it will encourage more sustainable tourism too, as more daytrippers and cycling families learn about this high-quality path in a beautiful coastal location. This will have knock-on benefits for local businesses and the wider economy, while looking after the special landscape and nature of this special area.”
The new route will attract more visitors to North Tyneside, which will have economic benefits for local shops and services. PHOTO: Mark Savage/Sustrans
Dame Norma Redfearn DBE, North Tyneside’s Elected Mayor, said:
“I’m delighted to see the new route already being well used.
“It strengthens connections between communities, businesses, and attractions, improves air quality, and fosters a healthier environment. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying how much safer and more enjoyable their journeys have become.”
“We’re thankful to have secured the investment for such a high-quality scheme and we appreciate the support of Active Travel England, Sustrans, and Capita in making this a reality.”
The second and last phase of work is expected to run until December 2024.
There are temporary traffic measures in place from October until December 2024, including a one-way system between Tynemouth and Cullercoats and temporary traffic lights at key points.
