TYNE Tunnels tolls are set to rise on New Year’s Day. Car drivers will pay £1.60 per journey, an increase of 20p.

Heavy goods drivers will pay £2.50, an increase of 50p per journey.

Permit holders will continue to receive a discount of 10 per cent on each journey through the two tunnels.

Paul Fenwick, Project Director for the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority, which owns the tunnels, said: “The increase in tolls is essential to finance the investment made in the New Tyne Crossing.

“Since both tunnels became operational in November 2011, journey times have reduced significantly and around 10,000 additional journeys are made through them every day. This demonstrates the benefits of the New Tyne Crossing to commuters and businesses.”