Middlesbrough 'rat run' road closed to traffic

A road in Middlesbrough used as a "rat run" is to be closed to traffic.

Bridge Street East, which runs from Queen's Square to Middlesbrough College, was designated a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare in 2009.

Access to vehicles was permitted only for loading and unloading.

However, after traffic surveys showed it was being used as a short cut, the council is to close it to traffic. A drop-down bollard will be installed to allow access for emergency services.

The closure will take place from 29 May, and for the first month diversion signs will be in place.