Jarrow ward councillors receive update on new Tyne crossing
As part of its extensive programme of consultation, the consortium advising on the new �100m Tyne Tunnel has met with the ward councillors of Jarrow to update them on the scheme's progress.
Project manager Phil Hall of the consortium's lead consultants Arup told local councillors Tom Hanson, member of the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority and vice spokesman on the Tyne Tunnel, Maisie Stewart, Edith Battye and Tom Defty that he expects to be able to present detailed plans for the new tunnel by early summer.
Councillor Peter Boyack, South Tyneside's lead member for transport and planning and a member of the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority, said: 'We are delighted that the PTA has asked their consultants to liaise with council members in such an open and honest way, and obviously makes communication a top priority as it proceeds with the development and preparation of the project. We look forward to hearing from them again in the summer when they have developed clear options on the potential scale and configuration of the new tunnel, and the impact on toll levels."
Coun Hanson said: 'I want to ensure that ward members, residents, schools, businesses and all other groups within the community are involved in the consultation process to make sure that progress on the scheme runs smoothly."
Phil Hall said: "The Jarrow members fully appreciate the economic need for a new crossing but also conveyed the views and concerns of their constituents in the clearest terms. 'Me key message for the PTA and the consortium is to make sure we communicate progress and consult as widely and as openly as possible."