We are pleased to confirm the inclined lifts at the Tyne Pedestrian and Cyclist Tunnels are now in use.
This follows a complex project to bring the glazed lifts into operation. We know it has been a frustrating wait, and we would like to thank tunnel users for their patience as we have worked behind the scenes to bring the lifts into service.
During the first few weeks of operation, the custom-built lifts will be closely monitored by the project team, including the contractor that completed the installation. As the lifts begin to be used regularly by the public, there may be short periods of maintenance required as part of a ‘bedding in’ period however we expect this will be minimal.
The new lifts can carry up to 21 people per journey and a journey from the top to bottom takes just over one minute. Tunnel users can also continue to make use of the vertical lifts located on both the North and South sides of the tunnel.
The wooden escalators will no longer be in regular use, so please ensure that you use one of the lifts for your journey.
We understand that this has been a long journey, and we are pleased that the lifts have now opened to the public. We hope more people will be able to make use of the historic tunnels for walking, wheeling and cycling.