Demolition of the Gateshead Flyover has passed the halfway mark, with the Five Bridges roundabout reopening to traffic. Work to tear down the concrete highway began in April, 18 months after the structure was closed suddenly in December 2024 due to fears of collapse.
Removal Progress and Reopening
Contractors BAM have now removed 15 of the 27 spans that make up the main flyover structure. The Five Bridges roundabout, which was closed for 25 days, reopened today. This means the High West Street bus lane is once again restricted to buses only. The tri-star footbridges are also partially reopened.
Scale of Demolition
Gateshead Council estimates that the weight of concrete and steel already removed is equivalent to nearly two Eiffel Towers, 64 Angels of the North, 53 Statues of Liberty, or 3,375 elephants. The first structure to be demolished was Computer House, located at the corner of Sunderland Road and High Street.
Timeline and Completion
Demolition of the 1960s flyover began in April 2026 and is expected to be fully completed by October 2026. The council continues to oversee the work to ensure safety and progress.
