'Major step' for town's £60m relief road plans

PLANS have been submitted for the creation of a much-needed relief road in Blyth in a major step forward for the priority project.

- By JAMES ROBINSON

The scheme, which is expected to cost £59.9 million, will help ease congestion at peak times on routes in and out of the town.

The project will involve the construction of a new dual carriageway and road widening of the existing single carriageway to dual carriageway along the length of the A1061. In addition, it is proposed to construct a new single-carriageway link between Chase Farm Drive and Ogle Drive.

The council is continuing to press for funding from central Government, with this expected to be confirmed in the autumn. Following on from this, construction is slated to begin in late spring next year, lasting for around 18 months, with the road expected to open in autumn 2027.

Richard Wearmouth, deputy leader and cabinet member for business, growth and regeneration at Northumberland County Council, said: "We've a firm commitment to the improvement and regeneration of Blyth, and have worked tirelessly to keep this scheme on track.