Newcastle Council confirms permanent pedestrian and cycle zone. It bans vehicles near St James’ Park for safety & better access.
The council plans a permanent pedestrian and cycle zone. Strawberry Lane is next to St James’ Park. It is near the Strawberry pub and the office complex, One Strawberry Lane. Temporary traffic limits were already in place for construction.
Officials want to stop cars using the street because drivers used it as a shortcut. It connected Strawberry Place and Gallowgate. The area is busy on match days when thousands of fans go to St James’ Park.
The council believes this improves safety by creating a zone for people and cycles. This affects fans going to games, but wider traffic should not be impacted. Access for delivery vehicles will also improve.
Walking and cycling routes are a priority, which helps people reduce car use. It supports alternative transport choices that benefit the city’s environment and improve air quality.
The council order was signed in January, blocking vehicles from Strawberry Lane and Back Gallowgate. Two people objected to the plan—one said it removes vehicle access, and another said parking becomes difficult.
The council believes Barrack Road is better and safer for drivers. The existing closure caused no issues, and the zone serves new housing where car ownership will be low, or even non-existent.