Newcastle Town Centre Walking and Cycling Scheme Completed Early

A major infrastructure project to improve walking and cycling routes in Newcastle town centre has been completed ahead of schedule, linking key destinations such as Keele University and Stoke-on-Trent railway station.

The works complete a vital connection from the A52 George Street into the town centre via Hassell Street and the A527 Barracks Road, strengthening Newcastle’s active travel network. Designed to encourage healthier, greener journeys, the upgrades aim to reduce car traffic in the busy town centre. All traffic management measures were removed on 8 September, ten days earlier than planned, with final signage installed shortly after.

Key features of the scheme include:

• New cycle markings along Hassell Street.

• A widened shared-use footway at the Hassell Street/Barracks Road junction.

• Improved crossing points on Barracks Road, including a larger central reservation.

• A new shared-use footway on the west side of Barracks Road, extending to Castle House.

• Refurbished traffic signals and resurfacing of sections of the main road.

The project was funded by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council through the UK Government, with delivery managed by Staffordshire County Council.

Looking ahead, further schemes are planned to build on these improvements, such as extending the Greenway from the A34 along Station Walks to George Street, and enhancing pedestrian and cycle links across the town centre.

Peter Mason, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for strategic highways, welcomed the early completion:

“We’re delighted this busy central road scheme has been finished ten days ahead of schedule. Providing a continuous cycleway link between Stoke-on-Trent railway station and Keele University is a big step forward, and it shows what can be achieved through effective collaboration with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council. This project is about improving facilities, encouraging healthier lifestyles, and making a real difference to local communities.”

Stephen Sweeney, deputy leader of Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, added:

“Millions are being invested to make Newcastle’s town centre an attractive place to live, work, and spend time safely. Walking and cycling routes are central to that vision, connecting residents with education, jobs, and leisure. It’s fantastic to see this project delivered ahead of schedule and already benefitting the town.”