The next stage of works are getting underway on the regeneration of Blyth town centre. ​ 

 

From Monday 12th July work will begin on utilities diversions in Bowes Street, Wanley Street and Church Street as part of the £1.3m Northern Gateway Phase 1 Scheme.  This is the first project in the Energising Blyth Regeneration Programme aiming to revitalise the town centre.  

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This project will improve the look and feel of Bowes Street, Wanley Street and Church Street and include new paving, wider footpaths, on-street parking and improved lighting.   ​ 

 

On Bowes Street the road will be upgraded, including improved cycling provision. The scheme also introduces a one-way system encouraging safe and sustainable transport in the area. ​ 

 

In May a number of planters on Bowes Street were removed to enable access for utilities diversions.  Work from July onwards is focused on utilities diversions prior to the main construction stage and will last approximately 12 weeks.  

 

Utility providers Northern Gas Network (NGN), Northern Power Grid (NPG) and BT Openreach will be doing these works to enable the construction of the main scheme. 
 

NGN and NPG are scheduled to begin work week commencing Monday 12th July for approximately eight weeks.  This will involve lowering the electric and gas services along Bowes Street to enable the council to build the new road surface later this year. 
 

BT Openreach are then expected to start minor works in mid August for around six weeks. 

Barriers will be installed around all works, localised pedestrian diversions will be in place where necessary and access to properties will be maintained at all times.  
 

The County Council will also be putting ‘business as usual’ signs around the area as the works begin in July - emphasising that businesses are continuing to trade during this period.   
 

Prior to their removal as part of the construction of the new scheme, the remaining planters are also being replanted with seasonal flowers this month to provide a temporary uplift to the look and feel of the area over the summer prior to the construction scheme starting.   
 

The main works are due to be completed in 2022.  The County Council will be engaging residents and businesses in the area before then with further information. 

 

The project is a partnership scheme delivered and funded by the County Council, with £550,000, Blyth Town Council with £18,740 and support from the Government's Accelerated Towns Fund of £750,000. 

 

More information on developments and plans for Blyth is available at www.northumberland.gov.uk/energisingblyth