National Grid is working with the North East Combined Authority (NECA), Port of Tyne and regional partners to remove the restriction posed by existing overhead electricity lines that cross the River Tyne at Wallsend and Jarrow.
The existing overhead lines limit the size of vessels and structures that can pass along the River Tyne, restricting operations for offshore wind and marine engineering businesses.
Removing this constraint will unlock major economic and infrastructure opportunities. It will enable organisations based along the River Tyne, many of which manufacture and assemble key components for offshore wind developments, to scale up their operations, increase output, and play a greater role in delivering clean energy for the UK.
Following a detailed assessment of replacement options, a new bore tunnel has been identified as the preferred solution. This involves constructing a new circa 1.6km tunnel crossing the River Tyne and other associated infrastructure, including two tunnel headhouses and two cable sealing end compounds.
We want to deliver a futureproofed solution that can unlock the full potential of the River Tyne and its surrounding communities, boosting economic growth and supporting the essential offshore wind and marine industries that rely on the river.
Current status
We have now submitted the Environment Impact Assessment Screening Request to North Tyneside Council, South Tyneside Council and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. This represents an important milestone for the project and is a significant step towards delivering long-term benefits for the region. We are at the early stages of the project and remain committed to continuing to engage with the public, local partners, stakeholders and landowners to ensure all voices are heard as the scheme develops.
Survey works
To support the planning of the Tyne Crossing Strategic Replacement project, our survey teams are carrying out essential survey works along and around the River Tyne. These surveys will help us to understand more about the local environment and will inform the development of the proposals. You may notice our teams working in the area, including in the river, at various times. Please be assured all activities will be carried out safely and with minimal disruption.
As part of these surveys, we are issuing a second Land Interest Questionnaire to nearby residents. This questionnaire helps us understand land ownership and usage in the area, supporting our engagement efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The project aims to remove the restrictions posed by overhead electricity transmission lines crossing the River Tyne, enabling improved use of the river for essential industries and supporting long-term economic growth in the region.
Following extensive assessments of various options to replace the overhead lines, a new bore tunnel has been identified as the preferred solution. This includes constructing a new circa 1.6km tunnel crossing the River Tyne and other associated infrastructure, including two headhouses and two cable sealing end compounds. We are confident this is the best technically feasible solution and one that will unlock use of the river for many years to come, whilst having a minimal impact on the community and environment.
We are working in close collaboration with the North East Combined Authority (NECA), the Port of Tyne, local authorities, businesses, and other regional partners to ensure the best outcome for the area.
To deliver the project, National Grid must submit an Initial Needs Case report to Government and the energy regulator, Ofgem.
Detailed design work will take place over the coming months along with surveys and environmental assessments. Consultation with the local community is scheduled to take place before two planning applications are submitted.
National Grid will continue to engage with stakeholders as the project progresses, and work will take place to ensure National Grid has all of the necessary land rights that are required to carry out the works.
A Final Needs Case (FNC) will also be submitted to Ofgem for review and approval. Once these steps are completed, construction can begin on the chosen solution.
We are committed to minimising disruption and will work closely with local stakeholders and communities throughout the planning and construction phases. Any required works will be communicated in advance.
There will be no disruption to the supply of electricity as a result of any works.
The project will help to support local growth in the North East economy by ensuring high-value industries along the River Tyne can better access and use the river. In turn, this will boost local businesses and support job creation.
By removing a key infrastructure barrier, the project will enable the North East to become a key offshore wind supply hub in the UK that has ideal access to the North Sea, contributing to national net zero targets.
You can contact the project team at [email protected] or call 0800 130 3711.
Lands Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We are currently gathering updated information to support the early stages of the Tyne Crossing Strategic Replacement project. The second round of Land Interest Questionnaires that are being issued help us to understand land ownership and usage in the area, ensuring we engage with everyone who may be affected.
Not necessarily. We understand that receiving a Land Interest Questionnaire or survey access letter may cause concern, but please rest assured this does not mean your property will be directly affected by construction or operation. No decisions have been made about land requirements at this stage.
We are carrying out intrusive and non-intrusive surveys in and around the river to better understand the local environment and identify the best way forward for the project. These surveys are essential for informing future design and planning decisions.
As the project is still in its early stages, it is too soon to confirm any specific impacts. The information we are collecting now will help us assess potential effects and ensure any future plans are developed with local needs in mind.
We will keep you informed as the project progresses and decisions are made. If your property or land is likely to be affected, we will contact you directly with more detailed information.
If you have any queries about your land, please contact the Lands Team at Dalcour Maclaren, a third party organisation National Grid has instructed to conduct this important work, on [email protected] or call 0333 188 5374.
If you have any general enquiries around the project and our proposals, please email our community relations team at [email protected].