Photomap

There is a need for a cycle path and pedestrian route along the south side of MetroCentre, parallel to St Michaels Way. It would run from the A1 junction Hollinside Road (and possibly also Marconi Way) to the path that goes under the A1 in the MC’s southeast corner (it’s called Cross Lane on this map, but ultimately the route needs to go as far as the road for vehicles called Cross Lane. There is plenty of room for a gentle eastward descent from the A1 junction although it may involve going on to Highways England’s territory! Ultimately what’s needed is a fairly straight route from Swalwell to Wellington Road and onward to central Gateshead, avoiding MetroCentre, and this suggested path is the missing link. An additional feature which ought to be incorporated is a route from the west i.e. Marconi Way and the path round the back of American Golf. The challenge there is getting pedestrians and cyclists safely across the direct slip road from the A1 onto St Michael’s Way. Some have said the slip road should be closed as it is so dangerous, making drivers use the other slip road and turn left onto Hollinside Road. Another idea is to reduce it from two lanes to one. Yet another idea is to put a central island where a new cycle and pedestrian route would cross the slip road, like the one nearby on St Michaels Way.