New Tyne Crossing decision likely in May
The final decision on the New Tyne Crossing is expected at the May meeting of the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority (PTA).
The decision on whether the new tunnel would be two lanes or four lanes was originally expected last September, but several issues have arisen which have delayed the process.
The PTA's advisers, led by consultants Arup, have had to re-examine the financing of the project following a European ruling that VAT should be charged on tolls on privately-owned tunnels and bridges throughout the Community.
Consultation with statutory bodies has also raised other issues which the advisers have had to address.
North Tyneside Councillor and PTA vice chair Muriel Green said: "It is disappointing that we have not been able to keep to our original timetable, but I can assure the communities affected by the construction of the new tunnel, and the drivers affected by delays at the tunnel, that the PTA is moving as fast as it can to resolve the various issues which have arisen."
"I am hopeful the PTA will be in a position to make a decision on the tunnel at its May meeting. This means the earliest possible opening date for the new tunnel is now the middle of 2006."
The consortium of advisers has also been re-examining the option of a bored tunnel rather than one of immersed tube construction. One of the reasons for this has been to provide up-to-date information to the Public Inquiry into the new tunnel which is expected next year.
Issued
on behalf of Arup by Bradley O'Mahoney Public Relations
Contact Richard Simpson or Clare Maxwell on (0191) 281 8833