Mar 22nd, 2010
Coastal footpath collapses in South Shields land slide
In the early hours of Sunday morning, a 50 foot section of the South Shields coastal footpath collapsed into the sea.
This footpath is a very popular route with walkers, runner and cyclists and if this had happened during the day, it could have cost lives.
Fortunately nobody was hurt.
Tons of rock and rubble have slid down the cliff side into the sea totally covering a small beach area.
Police and coast guard have completely cordoned off a large section of the coastal footpath as a precaution in case there are more land slides. The area will be made safe over the next few weeks when a new metal railing will be erected. The footpath will be re-routed to a safe distance from the edge.
Experts are now trying to establish why this section of cliff collapsed. Some speculate that it could have something to do with the old Westoe pit which was recently redevolped. A modern luxury village has been built on this site, but some believe the land is still contaminated which could affect the surrounding area.
It is more likely just to be errosion due to weathering over time.