THE Tyne Tunnel has officially gone cashless as part of "barrier-free" plans to reduce congestion and lower pollution levels.

From Monday (November 8), drivers will be able to drive straight through the tunnel in both directions as part of the move to "Open Road Tolling."

Read more: How to use the Tyne Tunnel without being fined as massive changes come in today

That means drivers will no longer be able to stop as the toll booths have been permanently removed from use.

Instead, drivers will have to either pay before, or after, they have made their journey using a pre-paid account or paying on the website afterwards.

But Tyne Tunnel bosses have retained a third option - cash, which means drivers not wanting to pay online or over the phone will still be able to use the tunnel.

Read more: What to do if you've been charged twice at the Tyne Tunnel today

Drivers will be able to settle their bill at a PayPoint retailer anywhere in the UK by midnight the following day. 

From there, drivers will also have the option to pay for up to ten journeys before or after their journey through the tunnel.

The Northern Echo: Picture: CONTRIBUTORPicture: CONTRIBUTOR

But where are the closest retailers to the Tyne Tunnel?

We've looked at PayPoint's list of closest retailers to bring you the four shops within a mile of each side that can settle your bill.

North side of the tunnel (Wallsend)

S & S Stores

74 Gallant Terrace, NE28 0JN

Monday to Sunday, 7am to 11pm

0191 2629532

Z G & S Booze News

100-102 Bewicke Road, NE28 6NJ

Monday to Sunday, 6am to 10pm

0191 2891997

South side of the tunnel (Jarrow)

Eastfield Stores

48-50 Ellison Street, NE32 3HX

Monday to Saturday, 5.45am to 10pm

Sunday 4pm to 10pm

0191 4898532

Simms News

75 Ellison Street, NE32 3JU

Monday to Saturday, 6.30am to 6pm

Sunday 7am to 2pm

01914832999

MCCOLLS

52-54 Abbey Drive, NE32 3QG

Monday to Saturday, 6am to 11pm

Sunday 7am to 11pm

0191 4836799

For more information - click here

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