Mayor's £24million for New Tees Crossing to help Hartlepool bounce back after lockdown

Building a new crossing of the River Tees on the A19 close to the existing busy viaduct (flyover) is a top priority of Tees Valley Combined Authority.

It is seen as essential for boosting growth in the region and a Business Case has been submitted to the Department for Transport.

The preferred option includes a new two-lane bridge crossing for northbound traffic and widening of the existing Tees viaduct to provide

three southbound lanes.

The new financial commitment by Mayor Houchen represents 5% towards the overall cost, and he is urging the government to ‘put its money where its mouth is’.

He said: “We need a plan to help us recover after this terrible crisis. I will make sure that Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool are in the best possible position to bounce back and as part of this plan I have now committed £24m (5 percent) towards the cost of the new Tees Crossing.

“This new road will reduce both congestion and travel times, making the Tees Valley even more attractive to businesses and will bring a significant number of local jobs to the area.

“This huge project was backed by the Government at the General Election, and again by the Transport Secretary on a visit to our area in November.

“My message now to them is – we have shown our commitment and put our money where our mouth is – now you must do the same.

“Rightly attention is being directed at the coronavirus response but we also must make sure that we stand ready to put everything possible in place to ensure that Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool lead the fightback.

“My plan will help us do just that!”

The combined authority says the congestion currently faced by motorists at peak times is frustrating and negatively impacts local businesses.

The Business Case adds the improvements are needed to support significant housing and employment plans including in Hartlepool.

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