Tyne Tunnel delays pave way to smoother crossing

Jun 7 2010 by Kim Carmichael, The Journal

MOTORISTS faced lengthy delays when the Tyne Tunnel closed for the weekend. The crossing was closed as work continued on the second tunnel under the river.

Drivers were forced to find alternative routes to allow construction work to be carried out at the south junction of the new Tyne crossing. That meant extra traffic in Newcastle, Gateshead and on the Tyne Bridge.

The work took place from 5am on Saturday until 11pm last night as a bridge above the mouth of the tunnel at Jarrow was demolished.

The road bridge had to be removed so that design and build contractor Bouygues Travaux Publics could complete its work on the south junction of the new crossing.

Trevor Jackson, managing director of TT2, said: “Last summer we were forced to close the tunnel for a full weekend so that two new road bridges could be built over the A19, at the south junction.

“That work was a great success and we were delighted to be able to reopen the tunnel hours ahead of schedule.

“It is regrettable that we have no option but to close the tunnel again to enable the demolition works to take place. However, we will do all we can to minimise disruption to motorists during this temporary closure.”

Machinery and bridge debris on the carriageway made it impossible for traffic to pass the demolition site.

Paul Fenwick, project director for the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority, said: “Once the old Howard Street Bridge has been completely removed, Bouygues Travaux Publics will be able to make real progress in completing the south junction of the New Tyne Crossing.”

The second vehicle tunnel – already visible next to the existing tunnel – is due to open to traffic by February next year.

At that point the existing tunnel will close for major refurbishment until December 2011, when both tunnels will be fully operational. This will more than double capacity at the crossing. Drivers have for years suffered long delays at the tunnel, with waits of 45 minutes or more at rush hour.