Gateshead flyover demolition costs forecast at £32.6 million

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 13:01 · Archive

The demolition of Gateshead's A167 flyover is expected to cost £32.6 million, nearly double the initial £18 million budget.

The expected cost of demolishing Gateshead's A167 flyover has reached £32.6 million, almost double the initial £18 million budget set by Gateshead Council in March 2025. The concrete structure was closed in December 2024 due to fears it could collapse, with the six-month demolition completed on 1 October.

Contractors BAM initially estimated £17.3 million in March 2025 to demolish the flyover, but the price rose significantly as the scheme developed. The council report states the initial estimate is 'not comparable' to current forecasts due to several factors, including procurement of 10-tonne steel props to prevent structural collapse during demolition, 24-hour work periods during certain phases, and protection measures for East Street flats. Monitoring of the underground Tyne and Wear Metro tunnels also contributed to costs.

Additional expenses included relocation of some East Street residents, fuel price increases, shuttle buses running during the Five Bridges roundabout closure, and structural monitoring and surveys. Figures due to be presented to councillors next week estimate costs at £32.6 million, though the final confirmed figure will not be known until spring 2027. Final works are expected to be completed in December 2026.

How it is being reported

• Flyover demolition costs almost double to £33mThe demolition, which was completed on 1 October, has far surpassed the initial £18m budget.BBC Tyne And Wear · 30 Oct, 12:30
• Demolition costs for Gateshead flyover forecast at over £32mWhile the final bill has not yet been prepared, it is estimated the removal of the flyover will cost tens of millionsChronicleLive · 30 Oct, 11:23

In this story: Gateshead Council · BAM · Gateshead · Tyne and Wear Metro · East Street

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