The tunnels are open and operating as normal. Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. - The tunnels are open and operating as normal. Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. - The tunnels are open and operating as normal. Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. - The tunnels are open and operating as normal. Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service.

Refurbishment

The tunnels are open and operating as normal. Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service.

The historic Grade II-listed Tyne Pedestrian and Cyclist Tunnels will close for refurbishment on 20 May 2013 for around 12 months.

Contractor GB Building Solutions of Balliol Business Park, Newcastle, has been appointed to carry out the £4.9 million refurbishment which will include the replacement of two of the original four escalators with inclined lifts and the replacement of the tunnels’ ageing mechanical and electrical systems.

The two remaining escalators, which are original and of historical significance, will be opened up to public view and illuminated with feature lighting.

New lighting, CCTV, control and communications systems will also be installed, in addition to carrying out repairs to the tunnel structure itself and to the historic finishes within the tunnel such as the tiling and panelling. The concrete floor sections are also to be refurbished or replaced, which will greatly improve the surfaces for cyclists and pedestrians.

During the closure, the Tyne & Wear Integrated Transport Authority will be providing a free timetabled shuttle bus service between the hours of 6am and 8pm, seven days a week for both pedestrians and cyclists.

In addition, for those who rely on the tunnels to travel to and from work outside of these hours, and who have no alternative means of transport, a pre-registered night shuttle service will be provided. Only those who have registered will be able to use this service. If you would like more information, please click here to visit the ‘Night Service’ page.

If you wish to contact the communications team please call 07821 537 106 or email tunnelvision@bradleyomahoney.co.uk. The Tunnels can also be found on Twitter and Facebook.