Drivers warned of A19 road closures in Jarrow as ‘Banana Bridge’ works nears completion

The Kirkstone Avenue footbridge, known locally as the ’Banana Bridge’ due to its distinctive curved shape, is undergoing refurbishment as part of major repairs to a stretch of the dual carriageway, which is due for completion in the summer of 2021.

The bridge spans A19, as well as two a slip roads south of the Lindisfarne Roundabout, and links the Scotch Estate to Hedworth.

The A19 is scheduled to be closed there between 8pm and 6am, over the five nights from Monday February 8, to Friday February 12.

This is to accommodate work on the bridge, which will need the use of a crane.

However, there is a possibility that if favourable weather conditions allow it, the work on the bridge will be carried out before February 12.

The renovations to the bridge are extensive. The 52-year-old structure was last refurbished in 1988. It will reopen in a matter of weeks, during which time free transport is available to residents.

A spokesperson for South Tyneside Council said: “Work has progressed on the refurbishment of the Kirkstone Avenue footbridge and preparations are now underway to enable reinstallation.

“The bridge was taken down and removed from site. Works have included amendments to the concrete abutments and steel pier supports to allow the level of the bridge to be raised and the existing headroom restrictions on the A19 slip roads to be removed.

“Following feedback, barriers on the bridge deck have also been removed to make the bridge more accessible to all users.

“Refurbishment of the bridge is nearing completion, with repainting and resurfacing of the bridge soon to commence.

“We will shortly begin reinstalling the bridge, starting with the erection of the new pier supports by crane in preparation for return of the bridge.

“The free replacement taxi bus and minibus that has been in operation since the repairs began, for residents and pupils who would normally use this bridge on their daily route, will remain in place until the project is complete and the bridge is back in use.”

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