Member Article

Ground investigation paves way for New Tyne Crossing

Major ground investigation works will start in North Tyneside and South Tyneside tomorrow in preparation for the start of construction work on the New Tyne Crossing next spring. At least 223 holes will be drilled or dug in East Howdon and Jarrow and the ground samples analysed. Investigations will also take place in the River Tyne itself. The work is being managed by New Tyne Crossing Preferred Bidder Bouygues Travaux Publics with the agreement of the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority (TWPTA) and local councils.

Paul Fenwick, TWPTA project director for the New Tyne Crossing, said: “This work will take place over six to eight weeks but each hole will be drilled or dug and covered usually within three days. Local residents will be able to see drilling rigs and there may be some noise if contractors encounter rock. Contractors will follow a strict code of practice.

“Only in exceptional circumstances will drilling take place outside the hours 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. They must also work considerately, leaving their drilling sites secure and clean, and keeping dust and noise to a minimum. We have told local people about the works and have set up a Helpline via the Tyne Tunnels switchboard (0191 262 4451 Option 3) for anyone who has queries about the work or who need to raise concerns.”

There will be no need for drilling operatives to gain access to households during these works and no road closures are anticipated. Local schools have been contacted with information outlining the dangers to children of playing near the holes whilst work is taking place.

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