Major changes planned for key route into South Shields

South Tyneside Council has revealed a scheme for the Arches A185/A194 junction in South Shields.

Consultation with residents, businesses and commuters are set to take place, in a bid to reduce journey times in and out of the town, as well as improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

The proposals include changing the Arches and Hobson Way/Elswick Way roundabouts into signalised junctions.

There are also plans for a new one-way link from Hobson Way to Jarrow Road, while the section of Jarrow Road would be converted to one-way between the extended Hobson Way and the A194.

The A194 towards the Hobson Way/Elswick Way junction would be widened to enable two right turning lanes onto Hobson Way, while there are proposals for new and improved pedestrian and cycle routes.

Coun Allan West, Lead Member for Housing and Transport, said: “We know how frustrating delays can be for motorists, particularly at rush hour.

“The project proposals aim to relieve the bottleneck where the A194 meets with A185, which has seen a significant increase in traffic flows since the opening of the second Tyne Tunnel.

“We are keen to hear people’s views.

“We used the same consultation process with the Lindisfarne improvements and the feedback we received was taken on board and used to finalise the proposals.

“I am sure the proposed improvements will be of huge benefit to those who regularly use this route.

“Good transport networks are key to boosting the borough’s economy and maximising employment and investment opportunities.”

The works are scheduled to start this autumn, subject to consultation and securing Local Growth Fund (LGF) funding from North East Local Enterprise Partnership.

It should take about 12 months to complete.

Public information events are taking place on Thursday, March 30 (6pm to 9pm) and Saturday, April 1 (10am to 4pm), at Lord Blyton School, in Blyton Avenue, South Shields.

People will get the chance to discuss the scheme, ask questions and look at visuals of the new and existing layouts.

Households and businesses are also set to receive leaflets outlining the plans.