Town centre improvements set to begin in Blyth
17 Dec 2021 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news
As part of Northumberland County Council’s ongoing regeneration of Blyth, infrastructure improvements in the town centre are due to start from 10th January 2022.
The work is an important part of the council’s £70 million ‘Energising Blyth’ programme to revitalise the town over the next five years delivering new jobs and learning opportunities, and helping to drive the green energy revolution in the UK.
Three streets will be affected at this stage of redevelopment; Bowes Street, Church Street and Wanley Street. The project will create a more welcoming, safe and accessible area include new paving, street furniture, wider footpaths, increased on-street parking and improved lighting.
On Bowes Street the road will be upgraded, including improved cycling provision. The work will formalise a one-way system, west to east, along Bowes Street encouraging safe and sustainable transport in the area.
Councillor Wojciech Ploszaj, Cabinet Member for Business, said: “These street improvements are an important first step in delivering our ambitions to reinvigorate Blyth town centre.
“This stage of work will deliver a range of benefits to make this part of town more welcoming and accessible for residents, visitors and businesses. I would like to thank local traders and businesses for their support as we deliver the scheme.”
The project is delivered by Northumberland County Council and funded in partnership through the Government's Accelerated Towns Fund, Northumberland County Council, and Blyth Town Council.
Alan Ferguson, Blyth Town Deal Board Chair and Owner of Fergusons Transport, said: “It's fantastic to see the first Energising Blyth development get underway with even bigger things to come over the next few years including culture, leisure, education and innovation projects which will continue to build Blyth’s first class reputation as the place for clean growth industry.”
Councillor Margaret Richardson, Mayor of Blyth Town Council, said: “We’re really pleased to see this project begin construction. The Town Council has been keen to see it introduced and it will breathe new life into an important part of town.“