Time to build another bridge

MANY motorists are against the proposed permanent closure of Salters Bridge in South Gosforth, which has been closed since July to facilitate the movement of the nearby Metro bridge.

Salters Bridge is particularly popular and provides a superb link between Hollywood Avenue in South Gosforth and along Salters Lane towards Longbenton. Killingworth Road is also closed until next Spring, and the current continuous stream of traffic along Sandy Lane and into Gosforth is horrendous.

What is the answer to the problem? In my opinion the council should build another bridge alongside the old one. It need not cost the earth, but must be constructed so that two-way traffic can safely cross.

Our forebears would turn in their graves if they knew there was such wrangling over their little old bridge. It was used in the 1800s to allow pack horses pulling salt pans from the coast, to cross the Ouseburn and journey on up to Salters Road in Gosforth.

Inevitably, conservationists are opposed to its re-opening, and wish the tranquil leafy lane, and Grade 1-listed Bridge, to remain closed. However, without a suitable alternative for motorists, this will be a big mistake.

CHRIS ROBINSON, Gosforth