Glimpse of bridge restoration as scaffolding down

Freshly restored sections of the Tyne Bridge have been unveiled this week as scaffolding is removed from part of the structure.

The lower section of the arch on the bridge deck of the western footway is now visible, marking a milestone in the landmark bridge's multimillion-pound refurbishment.

Over the past six months, engineers have been working on the bridge's parapets and underdeck behind the scaffolding.

The steelwork has been grit-blasted, repaired and repainted using a specialist three-coat system in the bridge's distinctive green shade, known as Hollybush Green.

Inspection work in 2022 found steel work had corroded due to peeling paintwork, damaged deck joints, leaking drains and damage to the road surface and pavements.

Overnight road closures are taking place until Friday, between 20:00 GMT and 06:00, while the scaffolding from the completed section is dismantled.

Pedestrian and cycle access across the bridge is open during the work.

Restoration work will now switch from the western to the eastern footways and parapets, with pedestrian access also switched to the western footway to enable the next phase of work to start.

There will be two further overnight closures of the bridge, on 19 and 20 March, to switch over pedestrian access.

Work on the bridge remained on course to be finished by October 2028 in time for the structure's 100th anniversary celebrations, Newcastle City Council said.

Councillor Juna Sathian, cabinet member for climate and transport, said: "We're almost two years into this major restoration programme as we restore an icon to its former glory and people can see the major transformation that is taking place.

"Each phase is meticulously planned, and I am pleased that the project remains on schedule as we preserve this major landmark for future generations.

"We would like to thank all of the teams involved for their huge efforts in completing this next milestone."

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