Commuters who usually travel between Newcastle and Gateshead via the town centre are being urged to take different routes when the Park Lane roundabout shuts later this month.

The closure, beginning on Saturday 25 July, is the most complex phase of the Gateshead Highway flyover demolition. Crews will work 24 hours a day, seven days a week to complete the operation as quickly as possible, timed to coincide with the school holidays when traffic is typically lighter.

The shutdown, expected to last almost four weeks, is scheduled to finish on Friday 21 August.

Motorists making through journeys are advised to plan ahead, choose alternative routes, and avoid driving through Gateshead town centre while the roundabout is closed.

Although through traffic is being discouraged, the town centre will remain open. Shops, restaurants, attractions and services will continue to welcome visitors throughout, supported by a summer programme of events and activities.

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Neil Wilkinson, interim service director for planning and transport at Gateshead Council, said: "This is the most complex and challenging phase of the demolition programme and there will be significant disruption on the road network.

"Our key message is simple. If you're not travelling to Gateshead town centre, please avoid travelling through it while Park Lane roundabout is closed.

"The diversion routes are there to maintain access for residents, businesses and visitors. They are not intended to carry the usual volume of commuter traffic that passes through this part of Gateshead every day.

"At the same time, Gateshead remains very much open for business. Our shops, businesses, restaurants, venues and attractions will continue to welcome visitors throughout the closure period, and there will be a fantastic programme of activities and events taking place across the town centre during the summer."

People heading into Gateshead are encouraged to use public transport where possible, and to consider park and ride, car sharing, or walking and cycling for shorter trips to help ease congestion.

Drivers making through journeys should use the strategic road network, including the A1, A19 and Tyne Tunnel, rather than travelling through the closure area.

The council is continuing to work closely with residents living nearest the demolition site, including those who have been offered temporary alternative accommodation during the closure.

Before the full closure begins, a week of overnight closures will start on Monday 20 July to prepare the flyover structure for demolition.