Tyne Tunnel fares due to rise next year

According to plans put the the North East Combined Authority this afternoon (Tuesday, November 20), prices for cars are expected to increase by 10p,  from £1.70 to £1.80.

This would also apply to other vehicles in the Class Two category, including light good vehicles.

Drivers of HGVs are facing the prospect of 20p being added to their fare, up to £3.60.

The fare rise is predicted to raise an extra £1.56m.

A report prepared for members of the authority’s North East Joint Transport Committee said: “Without an increase in tolls the Tyne Tunnels account would operate at a deficit of £1.54m, next year which would be unsustainable over the life of the concession.”

This paper also said the tunnel had seen lower levels of traffic since the Silverlink works started in 2016.

However, it adds the numbers using the tunnel is expected to increase next year, when the works are due to finish.

A decision on the fare increases is due to be made in January.

James Harrison

James Harrison , Local Democracy Reporting Service