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.
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 are currently preparing to submit an Initial Needs Case for submission to the energy regulator, OFGEM. This is a key step in progressing to the next phase of the project, where a preferred solution for removing the restriction of the overhead lines can be taken forward in detail. We expect to share further detail with you in Summer 2025. In the meantime, we continue to engage with local partners, stakeholders, and landowners to ensure all voices are heard as the project develops.
Survey works
To support the feasibility and planning of the Tyne Crossing Strategic Replacement project, our survey teams will be 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 preferred option for removing the existing overhead lines. 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.
National Grid have started to liaise with a number of stakeholders, including the local planning authorities and environmental bodies. This engagement is ongoing and will continue throughout the project.
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.
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 also support the UK’s transition to net zero by enabling 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.
We are currently assessing a range of different options to replace the overhead lines. The aim is to find a solution that is technically feasible, can unlock use of the river for many years to come, and has 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 complete detailed feasibility studies and submit an Initial Needs Case to Government and the energy regulator, OFGEM. Subject to approval, the next stages will include detailed design work, environmental assessments, planning consent, stakeholder engagement, and land agreements. 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 an offshore wind supply hub with ideal access to the North Sea, contributing to national net zero targets and the Clean Power 2030 ambition.
You can contact the project team at [email protected].