Member Article

Drivers encouraged to reduce impact of toll increase at Tyne Tunnel

The operators of the Tyne Tunnel are urging users to apply for permits to beat the 10p increase in tolls that comes into force on New Year’s Day. The new toll will be £1.10 for private motorists. But permit holders will pay only 99p per journey through the tunnel from January 1, a discount of 10%.

Tunnels manager Peter Hedley says: “Paying with two coins instead of one could be a bit less convenient for our customers. Investing in a permit will get motorists through the tunnel for less than they are paying now and will be more convenient for them too.”

Tolls for HGVs will rise from £1.20 to £1.50 but permit holders will pay only £1.35 per journey. The increase in tolls is part of the transitional arrangements in the development of the New Tyne Crossing. It is estimated that the toll for cars at the Tyne Tunnel could range between £1.55 and £2.10 at today’s prices once the second vehicle tunnel is opened, which is expected to be in 2011.

Paul Fenwick, project director of the New Tyne Crossing, said: “By increasing tolls in small incremental amounts we hope that tunnel users will continue to see the Tyne Tunnel as a cost-effective option for their journeys. “Tolls were increased to £1 for cars around five years ago, so a 10p rise is less than inflation over that period.”

Motorists wishing to sign up for a permit can call 0191 2624451 between 9am and 3pm or fax 0191 263 1031 or email info.tynetunnel@newcastle.gov.uk.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .