A key road in Northumberland is set to close for three months to facilitate the construction of a new cycle lane. Northumberland County Council has assured that the closure of the B8321, which runs past Corbridge Cemetery, will cause minimal disruption. The road will be shut while the £9 million cycleway between Hexham and Corbridge is built.
Diversion Details
Traffic will be diverted via the A695 and Tinklers Bank, adding less than 1.5 miles to journeys. Parts of the A695 between Hexham and the Dilston junction will also be closed in sections throughout the next year.
A council spokesperson stated: "The full road closure, advertised on the advance notice boards on site, is for the section of road between Corbridge roundabout to Dilston junction, past the cemetery. The diversion is very short, from Tinklers Bank through to Dilston junction, adding less than 1.5 miles to journeys. This will be in place for approximately three months but should cause very little disruption. To minimise disruption, we are doing the works under a full road closure so we can complete the works as quickly and efficiently as possible, reducing the period of disruption for road users."
Additional Closures
The rest of the A695 to Hexham will only be shut in sections for a few evening and twilight shifts - approximately six - spread over a 12-month period. Works will continue under the same traffic light system as previous works for the main works from Dilston to Hexham.
Some local residents had expressed concern over a 12-month closure window, but the council clarified that this is only to allow flexibility for the works to be carried out.
Active Travel Corridor
The "active travel corridor" between Hexham and Corbridge aims to improve walking and cycling infrastructure in the Tyne Valley, providing a segregated corridor for pedestrians and cyclists. However, the road will be narrowed, and the speed limit will be reduced from 60mph to 40mph. Traffic lights will also be installed on Dilston Bridge to ensure safe passage for traffic.
The scheme has sparked controversy in the local area, often facing criticism on social media. The project is scheduled for full completion early next year.
