Closure date for Carter car park

The car park's lower levels are still open to motorists

Motorists have been given six weeks' notice of the closure of Gateshead's iconic "Get Carter" car park.

The dilapidated multi-storey building was made famous in the 1970s film, in which Michael Caine's character throws a man from an upper level.

It is due to be demolished as part of a town centre redevelopment by supermarket giant Tesco.

The lower levels remain open, but could be closed as early as 8 June, according to the firm's development arm Spenhill.

Gateshead Council said that up to 2,000 people visited the car park on Saturday and Sunday, when the upper levels were opened to the public for the last time.

Tesco is bulldozing the entire 1960s Trinity Square complex to make way for a superstore, apartments and cinema.

Company spokesman Nick Gellatly said: "Although the date of the demolition of the car park is yet to be announced, this announcement marks a step further towards a new town centre.

"The plans for Trinity Square will help Gateshead boost its economy, satisfy local demand and attract residents and visitors who currently shop elsewhere."