Provisional figures from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister reveal a �very encouraging� level of support for the New Tyne Crossing from the public, business and interested organisations.
Out of the 786 representations made by the 19 July deadline 602 oppose the scheme and 184 support it.
Coun Muriel Green, vice chair of Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority, which is promoting the �139 million crossing, said: �At first sight the number of objections may seem negative, but for a scheme of this nature the level of support we have received is very encouraging.
�It shows that people recognise the urgent need for the New Tyne Crossing to relieve congestion, improve economic prospects, safety, and the environment.
�The PTA and its advisers, led by Arup, will continue to work with objectors to resolve outstanding issues in the hope that as many objections as possible will be withdrawn before the expected Public Inquiry, when it is called.�
If approved, the New Tyne Crossing will be constructed as a tunnel dualling the A19 under the river Tyne between Howdon and Jarrow, just east of the existing Tyne Tunnel. Each tunnel would carry traffic in only one direction. Construction could begin in 2004 with the new tunnel open to traffic in 2007.
Issued on behalf of Tyne and Wear PTA and its lead adviser Arup by Bradley O�Mahoney Public Relations.
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