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Plea for ideas on future of pedestrian tunnel
PEOPLE power could help transform the Tyne pedestrian and cyclist tunnels, according to a transport boss.
Consultation is under way about the future of the underwater link between Jarrow and East Howdon.
Everything from brand sponsorship to opening cafs or shops at the tunnels' entrances could be considered as part of ambitious development plans.
The tunnels, due to celebrate their 60th anniversary next year, remain underused, but that could be about to change.
Richard Simpson, a consultant for Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority, the tunnels' owner, told a meeting of Jarrow community area forum: "We have reached something of a crossroads with the tunnels.
"The tunnel equipment is old and expensive to maintain.
"Every part has to be specially manufactured and sourced, and really we need to step up what we do with the tunnels."
Built at a cost of 833,000 and opened in July 1951, the two tunnels were once a vital link for thousands of shipyard workers.
At their height, they were used by 20,000 people a day, but that has now fallen to 20,000 a month.
The decline of heavy industry along the Tyne saw a rapid decrease in the number of commuters using the Grade II-listed tunnels, now subject to frequent lift breakdowns.
Mr Simpson said the two main options open to the authority are to run the tunnels on a minimum basis, or to develop them by generating sponsorship and trying to increase footfall and cycle use.
Forum chairman Coun Tom Hanson said: "I would like to see young people coming up with their own ideas on how the tunnels can be developed, with coffee bars or music events and so forth."
Coun Jim Perry said bus links needed to be changed to better serve the tunnels, and Coun Maisie Stewart said more school visits should be organised.
Other options could include approaching cycling sponsors or staging sporting events.
Celebrations to mark the tunnels' 60th anniversary could also help raise their profile, the forum heard.
Consultation will continue until the end of March.
Anyone with ideas for the development of the tunnels is asked to call 281 8833 or e-mail tunnelvision@bradleyomahoney.co.uk
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Weather for South Shields
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -2 C to 2 C
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