Motorists were left frustrated this morning as the Tyne Bridge, the main route connecting Newcastle and Gateshead, was shut in both directions following a police incident.
The check, which affected the busy A167, sparked business chaos and delays across the surrounding areas.
Commuters reported ranges stretching for long hauls, particularly through Gateshead and into Newcastle megacity centre, with some motorists facing delays of over 40 minutes. For many, the usual morning commute turned into a stop-and-launch bottleneck.
Major Travel Disruption as Tyne Bridge Shuts Down
The Tyne Bridge eventually restarted at around 8.15 am, but the impact of the check lasted well into the morning. Motorists were advised to consider alternative routes while business gradually returned to normal.
CONGESTION
A167 Tyne Bridge north and southbound #Newcastle #Gateshead.
ℹ️Traffic is building up on both directions due to the bridge closure (Police incident). pic.twitter.com/u5MEcLok7M— North East Live Traffic (@NELiveTraffic) December 4, 2025
This unanticipated Newcastle Gateshead ground check highlights how indeed a short incident can produce wide dislocation on crucial routes.
Tyne Bridge Traffic Disruption Leads to Long Delays for Commuters
Exigency services were called at roughly 4.42 am. Both Northumbria Police and the North East Ambulance Service attended the scene.
The ambulance service verified that they dispatched two ambulance crews, two clinical platoon leaders, and two Dangerous Area Response brigades. One case was taken to the sanitarium for further treatment.
Still, help is available if this incident has affected you or someone you know. Samaritans give a 24-hour support line in the UK and Ireland at 116 123, or via dispatch at [email protected].
The Tyne Bridge check serves as a memorial of how swiftly travel dislocation can be made up, especially during the busy morning rush hour.
Authorities continue to cover business conditions and prompt motorists to plan ahead when using crucial routes like the A167 to avoid further delays.
