Jesmond Dene Road plans revised ahead of public consultation next week
Newcastle City Council has revised its plans for Jesmond Dene Road following feedback from residents and businesses during an earlier consultation – a further public consultation is due to open on October 26th.
The scheme includes proposed changes to cycle routes, pedestrian crossings, junctions and traffic calming. The council said it had amended the plans to take residents’ comments into account where possible.
The revised proposals include changes to a two-way cycle track between Friday Fields Lane and Moorfield, alongside traffic calming measures on Moorfield.
Plans also retain a two-way segregated cycle track between Castles Farm Road and Moorfield. New signalised pedestrian crossings and junction improvements form part of the wider scheme.
Road users told JesmondLocal about their different priorities, including junction delays for drivers and road-surface conditions for cyclists.
Cameron Taylor, a driver who said he uses the road about eight times a week, said junctions and traffic lights could be frustrating, particularly when approaching from the direction of Heaton. He described difficulties with vehicles moving ahead of him while he was waiting in traffic.
Talyor had no particular concerns about the proposed changes, but he wanted to see how they worked in practice. He also hoped the council would consider waiting times at traffic lights and improve junction safety for cyclists and other road users.
Alex Henderson, who cycles along the road two or three times a week, said the road surface needed improvement. He described it as rough and damaged in places, calling for smoother surfaces and fewer potholes. He also said the number of cars and pedestrians could make the road difficult to use, particularly in busy traffic and poor weather.
Abi, who asked to be identified by her first name only because she was concerned that being named could affect her employment, said she had not experienced significant problems using the road.
She spoke positively about the area and said further improvements could make it easier for students and others to get around.
Newcastle Cycling Campaign has previously supported protected cycle lanes on Jesmond Dene Road and Matthew Bank, saying they could improve routes between Jesmond and Gosforth. The campaign has also raised concerns about how cyclists would navigate certain junctions.
IAM RoadSmart, a UK road-safety charity that promotes safer driving and riding, reported in June 2025 that 58% of 655 motorists surveyed did not know the recommended passing distance when overtaking cyclists. The Highway Code advises drivers to leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists at speeds of up to 30mph, with more space at higher speeds.
The revised design drawings are due to be displayed at Jesmond Library until November 3rd. Council officers will be available to answer questions at public sessions at the library on October 28th. Residents can find further information through Let’s Talk Newcastle.
