New Tyne Tunnel a step further as sluice gates opened

Dec 12 2009 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

Mr Jackson said: “Flooding the dry dock takes us one significant step closer to completing the river works for the new vehicle tunnel.

“The project is roughly 50% completed now, with just over a year of building works left before the new tunnel opens to traffic and the existing tunnel closes for refurbishment. I’m delighted with the progress we’re making.”

Mr Caille said: “It has been quite challenging to build the tunnel units at the dry dock. However, we are extremely pleased to have been able to carry out this vital element of work here on the Tyne. Once the dock is flooded we can begin preparations for the flotation of the tunnel units in the New Year.”

The units will be carefully floated out into the river on successive high tides in January and February and towed to Howdon, where they will be prepared for lowering into the dredged trench.

Dredging of the trench is due to be completed between Jarrow and Howdon by next week.

Tony Henderson