Thousands-strong petition submitted over controversial Tilesheds 'flyover' proposals

A petition opposing controversial proposals for a ‘road-over-rail’ bridge has been formally submitted to South Tyneside Council.
Tilesheds crossingTilesheds crossing
Tilesheds crossing

Council chiefs have said that Network Rail’s plans to install full barriers at the crossings would lead to increased congestion.

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As a result, the proposed flyover is being explored as an option going forward.

Campaigners want to see the proposals thrown out, claiming the 'flyover' would 'decimate' wildlife in the area.Campaigners want to see the proposals thrown out, claiming the 'flyover' would 'decimate' wildlife in the area.
Campaigners want to see the proposals thrown out, claiming the 'flyover' would 'decimate' wildlife in the area.

In recent months, the proposal has sparked backlash from residents and environmental groups amid fears it would “decimate” the area’s natural beauty.

And campaigners opposing the scheme have argued the green belt area’s protected features – including its designation as an area of Special Scientific Interest – make the project unworkable.

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An online petition launched on behalf of the South Tyneside Environmental Protection (STEP) group was referenced at the full South Tyneside Council meeting on January 14.

Green councillor David Francis has called for clear answers over the proposals.Green councillor David Francis has called for clear answers over the proposals.
Green councillor David Francis has called for clear answers over the proposals.

The submitted petition, “No to the proposed Tilesheds Flyover, South Tyneside’, was listed as having 3,395 total signatories and 937 signatories in the borough at the time it was submitted.

Councillors heard it had been received in late 2020 and had already been “referred to the appropriate body.”

Although the petition was not tabled for discussion, Green Party opposition councillor, David Francis, called for clarity on the next steps.

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Deputy Mayor, councillor Gladys Hobson, said the petition had been referred to a council committee for consideration.

A council spokesperson previously stressed that no decision had been made on the road over rail bridge, with feasibility and environmental assessments still being carried out.

If council chiefs decide to progress the scheme further, it would be subject to the planning process.

For more information, visit the council’s website at www.southtyneside.gov.uk/btlc

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An online petition from South Tyneside Environmental Protection opposing the flyover recently exceeded 4,000 signatures.

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