The A188 Benton Lane, a major road linking North Tyneside and Newcastle, is set to receive £1.6 million in government funding for road safety improvements. The announcement comes from the Safer Roads Fund, which targets high-risk A-roads across England.
Planned improvements
Newcastle City Council and North Tyneside Council plan to install new zebra crossings, cycle lanes, and improved signs and road markings. The funding will also support resurfacing work to tackle potholes, aiming for "smoother, safer journeys for all," according to local authorities.
Expected impact on safety
The government estimates that these measures could reduce injuries on the route by nearly 10% over the next 20 years. This forms part of a broader Road Safety Strategy, the first in over a decade, which targets a 65% reduction in deaths and serious injuries by 2035.
Funding details
Local Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood is set to confirm the funding in a speech at a Safer Roads Fund event today. The fund allocates £5 million to four schemes across England, focusing on roads with higher collision risks. Nationally, the Safer Roads Fund is expected to prevent an estimated 2,750 deaths and serious injuries over 20 years.
Minister's statement
Lilian Greenwood said: "Everyone should feel safe on our roads. Our Road Safety Strategy is improving our roads in their entirety, from driving licences all the way to infrastructure. We’re not just talking about it, this funding will make a real difference to people’s lives in Newcastle, making journeys safer and bringing nearly £3m in benefits to the community."
