Partner Article

Decision on tolling plan for second Tyne Tunnel

Transport chiefs in Tyne and Wear will be asked to approve the tolling strategy for the New Tyne Crossing when they meet on 27 September 07. The strategy is essential to provide the finance required to deliver a new and improved crossing under the Tyne. If the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority (TWPTA) agrees, tolls will rise incrementally over the next seven years to £1.60 for cars and £3.20 for HGVs.

The report by the New Tyne Crossing Project Board also recommends that the TWPTA approves an increase in its borrowing limits for external debt - known as Prudential Borrowing - of around £130 million in order to help achieve its objective of minimising the toll to vehicle tunnel users.

The Authority is also being asked to approve an application to the Secretary of State for an interim rise in tolls from 1 January 2008 to £1.20 for cars (currently £1.10). The toll for HGVs will remain at £1.50.

The New Tyne Crossing project includes the construction of a second vehicle tunnel between East Howdon and Jarrow and the refurbishment of the existing Tyne Tunnel. The cost of construction is estimated at £260 million. Work is expected to start on constructing the second vehicle tunnel next spring. Pre-development works are already underway to prepare for the construction of the new tunnel.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .