Local leaders are preparing to approve extra money for a proposed coastal cycle corridor after the scheme's cost increased during detailed design. The A193 seafront route, intended to link Blyth and Whitley Bay with safer, segregated space for walkers, cyclists and wheeled users, has seen its projected budget rise significantly and a revised package is expected to be agreed next week.
Why the bill has increased
Earlier estimates placed the cost at around £9.7 million, but work during design and rising building expenses have pushed that figure to about £13.5 million. Project backers say the uplift is down to general inflation within the construction sector and the inclusion of additional features that were not in the initial scheme.
What will be decided next week
At a North East mayoral authority cabinet meeting in Chester-le-Street, the mayor and her cabinet are set to consider a reallocation that would see an extra £5.5 million committed to the corridor. That would bring the authority's total contribution to £11.7 million, with Northumberland County Council also due to contribute £1.7 million.
- Segregated route for walking, cycling and wheeling between Blyth and Old Hartley
- Improved crossing points and upgraded bus stops
- Extension of the scheme towards Seaton Delaval Hall and active travel link to Seaton Sluice Middle School
- Upgrades to public toilets, including shower facilities
Local significance
The corridor is intended not only to improve everyday journeys along the coast but to form part of a longer route linking communities across the North East, from Northumberland through North Tyneside and on to South Tyneside and Sunderland. For residents of coastal towns in North Tyneside — including Whitley Bay and nearby Old Hartley — the route promises safer options for commuting, leisure and school travel, particularly where it connects with local bus routes and schools such as Seaton Sluice Middle School.
“This scheme will improve the coastal cycling route between Blyth and St Mary’s, making it safer for people walking, wheeling and cycling. Improvements include wider segregated space for different users, better surfaces and safe enhanced crossing points. The route forms part of a longer coastal path linking communities across the North East from Northumberland, through North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland.”
That summary, drawn from the report accompanying the cabinet papers, also lists a number of enhancements added during design that account for part of the additional cost — for example extending the route beyond the original start and adding facilities to support active travel.
Funding breakdown
| Contributor | Planned contribution |
|---|---|
| North East mayoral authority | £11.7m (after proposed reallocation) |
| Northumberland County Council | £1.7m |
| Estimated total cost | £13.5m |
Officials frame the proposal as a targeted investment in sustainable transport, designed to make journeys safer and easier for a wide range of users, from pupils and commuters to families using the seafront. The scheme also aims to improve the quality of surfaces and crossing points, and to integrate the corridor with existing community facilities.
Subject to approval at next Tuesday's cabinet meeting, work could proceed with the revised budget in place. Local residents and groups with an interest in walking and cycling will be watching the decision closely, as it will determine whether the planned enhancements can be delivered in full.
