A water pipe that burst in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday, May 31) has closed roads in Benton, Newcastle. 

Reports of a burst water main in the junction of Whitley Road, Wesley Way, and St Aiden's Way started around 4:45am this morning, forcing police to close the road. 

The water supply to the pipe has been switched off by technicians, meaning some people who live in the area may have temporarily lost supply. 

The Newcastle road remains closed for the safety of repair crews, pedestrians and motorists, as the warped tarmac will need repairing. 

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The Northern Echo: A map shows the area impacted by the burst pipe. A map shows the area impacted by the burst pipe. (Image: AA TRAFFIC MAPS)

Northumbrian Water said: "We were made aware of a burst pipe at the junction of Whitley Road, Wesley Way and St Aiden's Way in Benton, Newcastle, in the early hours. 

"It wasn't a small burst and due to the size, it has caused some damage to the road.

"We're working with our partners at Northumbria Police to temporarily close the road to keep the area safe for our crews, pedestrians and motorists. 

"Meanwhile, our technicians have switched off the pipe to carry out repairs and we know some people who live directly in the area may have lost supply.

"We're really sorry about this and are trying to move water around the network to get it back on as soon as we can. Anyone who thinks they or someone they know needs extra support during this time can call us on 0345 717 1100. 

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"Once repairs to the pipe are carried out, then repairs to the road can take place so we can get things back to normal as quickly as possible and we'd like to thank our customers for their patience." 

Northumbria Police confirmed that they had been in attendance. A force spokesperson said: “At 5 am today we were alerted to a suspected burst water pipe in the Wesley Close area.

“Officers attended the scene to assist with road closures.”