Overnight Tyne Bridge closures starting this week

People are being warned of some overnight closures on the Tyne Bridge starting Monday (30 September).

The Tyne Bridge will be closed for four nights this week as the famous Great North Run sign comes down following a record-breaking number of participants at the annual event. Over 60,000 runners crossed the Tyne Bridge as part of the 13.1 mile run from Newcastle to South Shields.

The closures will take place from Monday – Thursday, from 8pm until 6am, apart from Tuesday evening. The closure will come into place on Tuesday evening from 11.30pm to accommodate travelling football fans due to a re-arranged football match. The Tyne Bridge will remain open for people walking and cycling during these closures.

Cllr Marion Williams, cabinet member for a Sustainable City said; “It was yet another fantastic Great North Run this year and we’re so proud of the part the Tyne Bridge plays in this key sporting event.

“Although the Tyne Bridge is undergoing restoration work, it was still fantastic to see over 60,000 runners making the iconic crossing, a truly memorable moment for the people taking part.

“We certainly look forward to hosting this world-class event next year when our city is once again showcased on the world stage.”

On the Newcastle quayside, the overnight closures for the building of the tunnel for pedestrians and traffic around the Newcastle tower are now complete. This was to ensure access to the Quayside remains open during the restoration works, while work could take place above the tunnel.

The scaffolding will allow access to the steelwork and underside of the bridge deck where Esh Construction will carry out the sizable task of cleaning, grit blasting, repairing and repainting as part of the major restoration of the iconic North East landmark.

Esh Construction is carrying out the work on behalf of Newcastle and Gateshead Councils.

The four-year programme is expected to be complete in summer 2028, ahead of the bridge’s centenary in October 2028.