North East Transport Suffers Blow After Funding Cut Deemed Fairytale

Durham County lost transport funding. It was originally promised £72.8 million. Now, it is getting only £23 million. The North East mayor called the initial promise a “fairytale.” She said the money never existed. This cut follows concerns about transport, and vital projects may now face problems. These projects include the Tyne Bridge and the Gateshead Flyover removal.

Labour ministers were urged to keep the promise. They were told it was made by Rishi Sunak, and leaders warned of economic harm if they failed. The Department for Transport reviewed spending. Labour stated the Tories left unfunded commitments. These commitments totaled £2.9 billion. Mayor McGuinness defended her party, blaming the last government’s finances.

The money was part of a larger transport fund. It was meant to make up for a prior issue. Durham joined a regional deal late. Issues persist about backing critical infrastructure. People worry about closing the North-South divide.

Rachel Reeves faces bias accusations. The A1 dual carriageway plan was scrapped because the DfT deemed it poor value. Roundabout upgrades may also be at risk. Tyneside council members are frustrated and await £6 million for the Tyne Bridge.

Serious concerns exist about bridge conditions. The Swing and Redheugh bridges have issues. The Gateshead Flyover closed in December because it risked collapse. That flyover carried 40,000 vehicles daily. It will be demolished and will not reopen.

Paying for demolition is a question mark. Gateshead wants to regenerate the town center. Plans exist to upgrade transport to boost the North East economy. Reopening the Leamside line is one idea, and extending the Tyne and Wear Metro is another. These could cost over £1 billion.

Council leader Martin Gannon expressed disappointment. He warned against funding cuts last September. He does not think the government is turning away. He said they will keep campaigning and they want the best solution.

Gannon mentioned past commitments. He said the previous government failed to deliver. The new government faces difficult decisions, and he sympathizes with them. He stated they will make their case, as funding is needed for the Tyne Bridge, CRSTS money, and the Gateshead Flyover.

They want more funding to pay for the Metro extension. It would also open the Leamside Line. They believe this will improve productivity. Then tax yields would increase.