Toll cash could fund Tyne Bridge makeover

THE millions of pounds raised from a possible toll on the Tyne Bridge could be spent on a muchneeded makeover for the iconic landmark.

It was revealed last November that the overdue restoration of the historic structure would be delayed until 2020 – and would cost between £15m and £20m.

Newcastle City Council had planned to begin the vital repairs last year, but have been waiting for a chance to bid for government funding which they say “has not arisen”.

But the prospect that emerged this week of a toll being imposed on the bridge – as well as the Swing and Redheugh bridges – could provide a much-needed source of income.

Local authority leaders from Newcastle, Gateshead, and North Tyneside say that the bridge tolls could produce a profit of £17.5m over five years, while their alternative clean air zone (CAZ) option – in which only highpolluting vehicles would be charged – would result in a £43m five-year surplus.

Any such profits would be reinvested in highways and public transport improvements for the area, and the Tyne Bridge restoration would fit that criteria.

The last major maintenance work on the 90-year-old crossing was carried out two decades ago, between 1999 and 2001, and the paint used is now beyond its 18-year lifespan.

However, there is no shortage of transport issues that the councils is in need of funding for. As well as facing a £116m pothole repairs backlog in Newcastle alone, the authorities are also hoping to secure cash for massive improvements in public transport, cycling, and walking infrastructure.

A spokesperson for the three local authorities said: “If charges are introduced, the money would be used to cover the cost of running a charging Clean Air Zone or toll system.

“After those costs have been met, we would use any additional money to fund projects that would help to deliver transport priorities, which include keeping our transport networks in good condition.

“The Tyne Bridge would be one potential area for investment. We would also be considering other options for public transport and highways improvements that will help to improve air quality and make it easier, safer and healthier for people to get around.

“We will be seeking people’s views through the consultation about where any such funding should be invested.”

The three councils will have to bring in new charges on the area’s roads to comply with a Government order to cut pollution by 2021.

A CAZ would mean that highpolluting

Coun Greg Stonevehicles, including taxis, buses, and lorries, would have to pay a daily charge of up to £50 to enter a certain area – currently proposed to include the centres of Newcastle and Gateshead, stretching up to Gosforth and also down part of the Coast Road. Under the toll option all cars and vans could be charged £1.70 to use the bridges, or £3.40 for HGVs.Coun Greg Stone, Newcastle Lib Dem opposition transport spokesman, questioned whether using toll revenue to fund the bridge’s upkeep will be a priority for the councils given the vast infrastructure changes needed to improve air quality.He said: “The Tyne Bridge is in a poor state of repair and needs to be tackled. The question will be whether people are going to feel comfortable about paying for it themselves. You could also see it being more of a priority to invest in better public transport alternatives, rather than in the Tyne Bridge. Although the bridge would be nice, the council do have to look at other alternatives that will help to improve air quality.”