MP calls for ‘proper diversion routes’ as Council seeks South Shields bridge replacement
The Member of Parliament for South Shields is calling for improved diversion routes as the Heugh Street Bridge closure continues.
The South Shields MP wants “proper diversion routes” to be put in place as South Tyneside Council seeks to replace the Heugh Street Bridge.
Emma Lewell’s call comes after the local authority revealed that it has submitted a £21million bid to the Department for Transport’s Structures Fund in an effort to replace the bridge.
The bridge, on River Drive, was shut with “immediate effect” to traffic in November 2025 - with further inspections in the months following showing that the overall condition of the bridge is “poor”.
It remains open to pedestrians and the structure continues to be subject to enhanced monitoring and inspections.
The Heugh Street Bridge carried around 5,000 vehicles a day prior to the closure and Ms Lewell has often called for improved diversion routes in the area to help ease congestion in South Shields.
The South Shields MP’s calls prompted her to launch a petition, which urges South Tyneside Council to do the following:
- Expedite, explore and urgently action any and all funding options to support the repairs or rebuilding of the Heugh Street Bridge.
- Make urgent, comprehensive arrangements for the repair or rebuilding of the Heugh Street Bridge, in readiness for funding being identified.
- Immediately create and open any and all possible alternative access routes, making any necessary temporary highways adjustments.
Calls to ease congestion
Speaking about the Council’s funding application, Ms Lewell welcomed the decision to apply but urged her constituents to continue signing her petition.
The South Shields MP said: “At last... after I raised this issue in Parliament, the Council said they would apply for this funding.
“Whilst we await a decision, we still need proper diversion routes to ease congestion.
“Thanks to all so far who have signed my petition. We need to keep pressure on.”
Ms Lewell has also make the calls on South Tyneside Council to implement “proper diversions” in the House of Commons, citing that time was a “critical factor” due to the town being set to the finish line of the Great North Run in September.
A decision on South Tyneside Council’s bid to the Structure’s Fund is expected to be announced in the autumn.
Any structures that benefit from funding must be repaired or replaced and opened to traffic by March 31, 2030.