Props poised for flyover demolition
Gateshead CouncilDozens of heavy duty steel props have been built to support the weight of a crumbling flyover during its demolition.
Preparation to bring down the Gateshead Flyover has been under way for some time, with the work expected to start this year.
The props will take the weight of the concrete while machines gradually eat away at either side of the structure and cut through its steel tendons.
Gateshead Council leader Martin Gannon said the props were "a vital part of the jigsaw to keep everybody safe".
"We're now getting close to the main demolition of the flyover starting," he said.
"We can't wait to see the demolition machines move in and start doing their vital work and we know the Gateshead public want to see that too."
Work to tear down the 1960s structure is set to start once the derelict Computer House has been flattened to allow better access to the central section of the flyover.
The Labour-run local authority said the demolition process had been "carefully designed" to see machinery "nibble" concrete away on either side of the flyover at the same time.
"This will ensure the structure's cantilevers remain balanced and stable while demolition continues," the council added.
Before demolition begins on the central section of the flyover, contractors will also put in place two screens to protect the Aidan House building and the car park at the southern end of the High Street, next to the Matalan store.
Similar structures will also be needed for later stages of the demolition to protect buildings like Peareth Court and Park Court.
The council said they were needed because of the potential for debris to break off the flyover and cause damage.