Tunnel's lifts in use after 'frustrating wait'

Custom-built glass lifts are now in use after repeated delays in the refurbishment of a Grade II listed tunnel.

Work on the Tyne Pedestrian and Cyclist Tunnel running between Howdon, in North Tyneside, and Jarrow, in South Tyneside, started more than a decade ago.

But while the crossing reopened in summer 2019, the installation of two inclined lifts was set back by the Covid pandemic, difficulty acquiring parts and the original contractor going out of business.

The tunnel's operators described it as having been a "long journey".

The lifts, which can carry up to 21 people, will be monitored during the first few weeks of operation.

Users are being warned there may be short periods of maintenance needed as part of a "bedding in" period.

The tunnel's operators said it had been a "complex project" and a "frustrating wait".

They added: "We understand that this has been a long journey and we are pleased that the lifts have now opened to the public."

People can also continue to use vertical lifts located on the north and south sides of the tunnel, but wooden escalators will no longer be in regular use.

In 2020 it was reported the cost of the entire tunnel renovation stood then at £16.9m – far above the initial £6.9m budgeted for.

A spokesperson for the North East Combined Authority (NECA) said this week the total cost of the scheme was not yet known. It is expected to be finalised in the coming months.

British firm Lift Design Limited was brought in three years ago to replace an Italian engineering company whose ability to complete the project had been hampered by Covid travel restrictions.

Previous delays were blamed on their listed building status, the discovery of asbestos and original contractor GB Building Solutions going bust.

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