Tyne Bridge restoration to involve more than 900 repairs

Traffic across the bridge will be reduced from April

The restoration of the Tyne Bridge will involve more than 900 repairs, according to the developers leading the project.

The long-awaited work on the landmark structure, which links Newcastle and Gateshead, will include deck waterproofing and masonry repairs.

Steven Garrigan from Esh Construction, which is leading the bridge restoration, said the repairs and strengthening works would “futureproof the bridge for the next 100 years and more”.

Traffic across the bridge will be reduced from April in each direction.

The works are expected to last four years but the lane restrictions are only expected to last for a minimum of two years.

Pamela Holmes, Newcastle City Council's assistant director for transport, said: “The Tyne Bridge is the defining symbol of the North East, as well as a major gateway to the city, and we’re all incredibly proud to be part of the team restoring this iconic structure and preserving it for future generations.”

Last month, the government handed over the tens of millions of pounds it had promised for the restoration of the bridge.