(image from Tyne Tunnel Website)
Most of the time, I’m reporting in the North of England. I’m not going to add anything else really; apart from that it is a good place to be. However, the Tyne Tunnel (soon to be plural) is a terrible place to be. Why is that? Well, apparently chaos is the current word of the day for the system that was meant to make crossing this particular stretch of the Tyne River far easier.
The complaints have come flooding in as drivers are facing probably the worst traffic hold-ups in the history of the stretch of road. Apparently, this has a number of different causes, but one of the main culprits is the way in which the administrators are ‘experimenting’ with traffic flow solutions.
Unfortunately, this has coincided with roadworks on the A19, as well as a toll booth being closed. Bosses have said that the works are necessary as the area will form part of the construction corridor for the new tunnel. Not only that, but you can’t get change from the toll booths at the moment.
For those of that who are local to this neck of the woods, be advised that there is going to be a closure (probably for a significant period) of the link road between Northumberland Docks and the Tyne Tunnel roundabout. The reason for this is that the second tunnel (due to be completed in Dec 2010) is going to follow the same route under the river. Why an overpass isn’t a better solution is anyone’s guess.
Naturally, you’re thinking that having two tunnels should be a fantastic idea and alleviate any current traffic problems. Sorry to say, but they are going to be closing the ‘old’ tunnel for major works. It could be closed until 2011 – meaning we have to wait effectively a year before both tunnels are open and working to service the local communities.
Do you have an example of a completely stupid and overlong traffic issue in your area (including comments on toll roads)? It’s over to you dear readers…
Thats not the only thing that holds up tyne tunnel traffic.I go thru every friday and they dont have staff on each post you have to press a button for help if you are disabled.well last week I had badges on windsceen and when the guy seen the badge he shrugged his shoulders and made me open my window to tell him how to do his job..very funny and took 5 minutes.where if each post was manned.and they knew there job that would have taken at most 30 seconds..ever wonder why there is such a large cue at the pay end know you know..rare ones hold the traffic up with I don’t know my job.