Stinging criticism for plans for major changes to key South Shields route

Council bosses have come under fire over plans for major changes on a key route into South Shields.
The proposed layout.The proposed layout.
The proposed layout.

The Gazette reported yesterday that South Tyneside Council was planning a renovation scheme for the Arches A185/A194 junction in South Shields.

The proposals include changing the Arches and Hobson Way/Elswick Way roundabouts into signalised junctions, and introducing a new one-way link from Hobson Way to Jarrow Road.

Tyne Dock arches trafficTyne Dock arches traffic
Tyne Dock arches traffic
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Gazette readers have given the plans – which are set for a consultation process – the thumbs down.

On Facebook, Martyn Whitley posted: “Perhaps if you removed all the traffic lights, vehicle flow would be improved. Could have saved a fortune at the bottom of the John Reid Road – notice how sweet it flows when the lights are switched off.”

Joe Lovly added: “Please tell me this is an early April fool.”

James Mc said: “I hate this idea as someone who works in that area, as the traffic flow isn’t really that bad. All this is doing it moving the traffic from the round about at the bottom further up the road.”

Tyne Dock arches trafficTyne Dock arches traffic
Tyne Dock arches traffic
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Michael Wanless posted: “I understand the principle of the idea, but it would only work it the traffic was allow to flow freely, which is only achievable by keeping the roundabout.”

Cally Jackson added: “Perhaps if they stopped with all the roadworks the traffic wouldn’t be congested!

“They have roadworks on every major route in or out of Shields at the minute! Waste of money!”

Gary Burgess said: “When will the penny drop, traffic lights cause mayhem.”

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Debbie Milner posted: “More roadwork chaos: as soon as the Lindisfarne roadworks finish then these will start.”

The widespread criticism contrasts with the views of Coun Allan West, lead member for housing and transport, who said the changes would create a ‘huge benefit’.

He said: “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.”

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Not all those commenting on Facebook were against the plans.

Wendy Shepherd posted: “I think it’s a great idea. There is a big problem with congestion in that area at peak times, this would be a much need solution.”