The operator of the Tyne Tunnels, TT2, has announced the appointment of a new chief executive officer.
Cleveland-born Adrian Wallace, 52, takes up the role to operate the key transport link that forms part of the A19.
Adrian brings a wealth of experience to the organisation, having worked in various, senior positions within the health, education, infrastructure and property sectors in the UK and internationally.
Most recently he held the position of Asset CEO at Fulcrum Infrastructure Management and CEO of ULiving@Hertfordshire Plc.
From 2016 until June 2021, Adrian was the CEO of Tramlink Nottingham Ltd, helping to build, maintain and operate this vital piece of Nottingham’s infrastructure. He steered the organisation through the pandemic ensuring key workers were able to get to work during this difficult period.
In recent years, TT2 has continued to improve the Tunnels’ infrastructure with the successful introduction of the Tyne Pass free-flow system. The new system has reduced congestion, cut journey times, modernised infrastructure, and created 80 new local permanent jobs.
He sees large infrastructure schemes like the Tyne Tunnels as catalysts for regeneration and economic growth.
“Now that Tyne Tunnels has successfully transitioned from toll booths to a more modern, free-flow system, I intend to build on these changes, improving methods of payment and cementing our position in the North East infrastructure,” said Adrian.
“My approach is customer-driven. I will ensure the absolute focus of the organisation is the customer. It is the 1.6m customers driving though the tunnels each month that we need to be conscious of, creating a service that evolves with their needs. A one-size fits all approach may not be suitable for everyone, so we will be reviewing our products.”
He also intends to build on the organisation’s green credentials, continuing TT2’s sustainability work and efforts to reduce environmental impact. TT2 has achieved carbon neutrality for its own operations (scope 1 and 2 emissions) in recent years, and is committed to maintaining carbon neutrality until 2025.
He added: “I hope to work closer with local community groups and key stakeholders to see how we can play a greater role, offering meaningful social and economic impact.”
