ROADWORKS on a busy North-East route will be completed this weekend, two weeks ahead of schedule.

Maintenance on the Felling bypass, between Whitemere Pool and Heworth roundabout, started on October 10 to install new crash barriers and new lighting.

Crash barriers have also be installed along the central reservation to protect against cross-over accidents.

It has caused delays for motorists as the dual carriageway was reduced to a single lane in each direction.

Anneliese Hutchinson, from Gateshead Council, said: “We’ve been fortunate with the weather and even though we had a small amount of snow last week we’ve still been able to crack on with the work.

“We know these essential works have caused some delay to people’s journeys, especially during the morning rush, but we’ve been working seven days a week to get them finished as quickly as we can.

“We appreciate people’s patience and I’d like to thank our team for doing such a good job in getting it done ahead of schedule.”