North Tyneside Introduces Coastal Cycle Route and 'Pop-Up' Lanes for Safe Travel
North Tyneside Council, in collaboration with Sustrans, is introducing a two-way cycle route along the coastal road between Whitley Bay and Tynemouth. This forms part of the National Cycle Network and aims to promote safe pedestrian and bicycle movement while supporting local businesses.
The council is working with local authorities and urban planning departments to identify and implement 'pop-up' cycle routes in town centres. These include Park View in Whitley Bay, High Street West in Wallsend, Nile Street in North Shields, and Front Street in Tynemouth. The promenade and footpaths will be dedicated solely to pedestrians, ensuring social distancing.
Jonah Morris, Sustrans' Partnerships Manager in the North East, noted that the Covid-19 pandemic has led to changes in transport choices, making it crucial to adapt current space arrangements. Cllr Carl Johnson, cabinet member for Environment and Transport, stressed the importance of responding swiftly and effectively to the pandemic and supporting the borough's recovery through safe and sustainable travel options. Proposed measures also include creating 'pop-up' cycle routes to link coastal plans to town centres and employment areas with reduced public transport capacity.
The council is seeking local feedback on the new measures, which will be included on the 'Space to Move' map. They are also working closely with businesses to support their reopening through the 'Restarting Business in North Tyneside' campaign and will monitor the impact of the measures.
