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Page last updated at 12:43 GMT, Monday, 18 January 2010

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In pictures: Tyne Tunnel section floated

People on floating section of Tyne Tunnel. Photo: TT2

The four pre-fabricated concrete tunnel sections that will form the underwater section of the second Tyne Tunnel have begun to be moved into place. Ballast tanks are being used to float and move the 295ft (90m) units, which each weigh around 10,000 tonnes.

The second tunnel section was floated from the dry dock at Walker to Howdon Basin (3km away) on Sunday 18 January 2010. It will remain there for about a week before being lowered into the tunnel trench between East Howdon and Jarrow.

Floating section of the Tyne Tunnel. Photo: TT2

The first tunnel section was floated earlier in the month when there was snow on the ground. Once all four are in place they will be covered with rock armour to protect the finished tunnel from damage.

Section of Tyne Tunnel floating on the River Tyne. Photo: Tony Mullen

Tony Mullen spotted the first section of tunnel being moved and took this photo from the river bank. It puts into perspective just how long each section is. The new tunnel is due to open to vehicles in February 2011. Photo: Tony Mullen

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