28 February 2002
Application to build new Tyne Tunnel to go to Secretary of State
Plans to construct a new £139 million road tunnel between Jarrow and Howdon reached a major milestone today (28 February) when Tyne Wear Passenger Transport Authority (PTA) resolved to apply to the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions for the necessary powers. At today's meeting the PTA also approved guidelines to buy properties near the scheme under certain conditions. Because the PTA cannot simply pay compensation for lower property values, it has adopted policy guidelines to be used if people near the scheme need to sell their homes. If serious effects such as noise, demonstrated loss of value or medical conditions are caused and a move is necessary, the guidelines will help the PTA decided whether to assist by buying the property. In a decision, the PTA would not always decide to buy a property but would look at all circumstance including if the property was bought before the New Tyne Crossing was known about. The PTA wants to commission the construction of an immersed tube tunnel across the River Tyne that will improve access to job opportunities for communities on both banks of the river by effectively completing the dualling of the A19. The existing road tunnel carries both northbound and southbound traffic. It was designed with a capacity of 24,000 vehicles a day. It currently carries 36,000 vehicles a day resulting in congestion and delays. The new crossing will be financed and constructed by the private sector which will also operate all the tunnels, including the Grade II listed cycle and pedestrian tunnels. Tenders for the contract are expected to be invited in October this year. The concession contract is expected to be awarded in December 2003 with construction beginning the following spring. The new tunnel is expected to open in May 2007
Following today's PTA meeting, notice will be served to statutory bodies and other interested organisations that it is to apply to the Secretary of State for the necessary powers under the Transport and Works Act 1992. An application will be made shortly afterwards. Once the application is made, the public and interested organisations have 42 days in which to submit letters of support or objections. The public will be able to examine the application at local libraries and public buildings in North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Newcastle. A series of exhibitions will also be held. It is expected that the Secretary of State will call a Public Inquiry later this year. PTA vice chair Councillor Muriel Green said after today's meeting: This is a momentous day in the history of the Tyne Tunnels. The New Tyne Crossing is desperately needed for the whole of Tyne and Wear. We hope that many people will write in support of the scheme and we will continue to meet with residents and interested groups to address their concerns.
Issued
on behalf of the Arup-led consortium advising Tyne and Wear PTA by Bradley
O'Mahoney Public Relations. Contact: Richard Simpson or Clare Maxwell on (0191)
281 8833