Reopening of Tyne Pedestrian and Cycle Tunnel proves a hit as over 30,000 people pass through in two months

The tunnels finally reopened in August after years of delays. The structure closed in 2013 for repairs and suffered a series of setbacks, but the eventual reopening has proved a big success.

New figures show that in September there were 10,446 pedestrians and 5,728 cyclists using the Tunnels, while October saw 10,109 pedestrians and 4,667 cyclists, over 30,000 in two months.

Principal engineer Alastair Swan said: “Before the tunnels closed in 2013 we estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 people per month were using them.

“It is invaluable to now have accurate figures to help us measure the social return on the investment of the Joint Transport Committee in restoring the tunnels and keeping open this vital, green link across the Tyne.”

In their heyday in the 1950s, when factories and shipyards crowded the banks of the Tyne, around 20,000 people used the tunnels every day.

In September it was reported that visits to Jarrow were on the up thanks to the tunnels reopening.

The reopening of the tunnel also provides a green journey to work for many commuters.

Mr Swan added: “Cycling is once again becoming an option for commuters.

“The rise of cycling for leisure and the investment by North Tyneside and South Tyneside Councils in improving cycleways connecting to the tunnels, mean there now is a whole new market out there.”