New Gateshead riverside trail launches
A new scheme to revamp Gateshead riverside is officially launched today - hoping to encourage people to get out into nature right on their doorstep
Last updated 11th Apr 2024
A new scheme to revamp Gateshead riverside is officially launched today - hoping to encourage people to get out into nature right on their doorstep.
The Tyne Derwent Way is a 9 mile outdoor trail connecting the centre of Gateshead with the Derwent valley - along the river.
The picturesque route begins at St Mary’s Heritage Centre before running along the Tyne, past Gateshead Riverside Park, Dunston Staiths, through the Derwent Valley, and Land of Oak and Iron and finishing at National Trust estate, Gibside.
The route is being revitalised following the Government awarding Gateshead Riverside Partnership £1.5m of UK SPF funding to improve the route including pathways, signage and artworks along the Tyne Derwent Way.
Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health for Gateshead and Newcastle, said:
“The launch of the Tyne Derwent Way is fantastic news for Gateshead.
"As well as providing an opportunity to celebrate our heritage, nature and culture, it offers improved access to green spaces for all local residents.”
The launch of the Tyne Derwent Way also includes the reopening of the historic Dunston Staiths to the public for the first time since before the pandemic.
The Staiths will open to the general public from 10am-2pm on the first Saturday of the month from May to September.
Andy Smith, Chairs of the Friends of Dunston Staiths, said: “ There’s a great deal of pride locally in Dunston Staiths and what it represents for the local community.”
St Mary’s Heritage Centre will also be reopening under the new stewardship of the Tyne & Wear Building Preservation Trust.
A year long programme of events has kicked off today, to celebrate its launch. Visitors can then expect arts activities, nature walks and heritage tours from the summer and beyond.