Coniscliffe Road update

Our recent scheme of work to improve outdoor facilities on Coniscliffe Road has been subject to a large amount of public interest.

• The scheme, which included works to the carriageway, widening pavements and introducing more planting, was funded by the government as part of plans to regenerate town centres. The funding was specifically for government approved town centre projects and could not be used elsewhere.
• We consulted with local businesses and stakeholders throughout the project and have continued to work with them to address issues which have arisen.
• Yesterday (Monday 31 March), some of the planters which have recently been installed in the area were moved. This was in response to work being undertaken by Northumbrian Water to repair a leak on their sewer. A decision has been taken to permanently relocate some of these outside Larchfield House to address emerging issues with pavement parking in this location.
• New, smaller bollards will be installed outside Hash Bar and Kitchen in the next couple of months which will create additional space for outdoor seating. This will be accommodated within the existing budget for the scheme and has been agreed due to the loss in space the business incurred as a result of changes to the carriageway.
• The total cost of the scheme is £549,000 - nearly half what has previously been reported in the media.
• As a result of the works, more businesses on this section of Coniscliffe Road have the opportunity to benefit from outdoor seating.
• The project has also contributed to creating a greener, more pleasant and safe environment for people visiting the town to enjoy.