Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. - Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. - Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. - Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service.

Works

CURRENT STATUS: Both lifts are currently in operation. All four escalators are out of service. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Planned works include:

• Energy and carbon reduction

• Structural repairs including extensive corrosion protection

• Building and conservation repairs

• Tiling and painting

• Asbestos removal or encapsulation

• Landscaping and approach on north bank

Work has concluded on the refurbishing and repairing the vertical lifts in the Tunnels

Both Jarrow and Howdon lifts have returned to service following a £500,000 investment programme.

Of the four escalators, only the up escalator at the Jarrow entrance is currently working. The other three remain open to users who are able to use them as stairs.

Coming up:

Planning permission (Listed Building Consent) was received in October 2011 to allow a £4 million investment to improve and refurbish the Tunnels.

Works will include the replacement of two of the escalators with inclined lifts.

The two remaining escalators, which are original and of historical significance, will be opened up to public view and illuminated with feature lighting. Work is expected to begin in the spring of 2012 and take around 12 months to complete.

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.