Extensive Tyne Bridge Repair Scheme Approved
The famed Tyne Bridge that links Newcastle and Gateshead is set to receive funding for considerable, extensive and comprehensive repairs after a Major Road Network fund scheme proposal was approved.
The proposal, initially submitted in 2019, is the first major refurbishment of one of Newcastle’s most striking landmarks in over 20 years and is set to cost over £41m.
The majority of this figure (£35.3m will be paid for by the Major Road Network fund, with the remaining £5m bill to be split between Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council.
Given that the last major refurbishment work in 2000 to the Grade II* listed building was primarily to repaint the ageing bridge, the refurbishment programme is somewhat substantial.
These works include repairs to the steelwork, concrete repairs, a complete re-painting of the bridge, upgrades to the drainage system, repairs and replacement of history masonry and stonework, upgrades to waterproofing on the bridge deck, joint replacements, and protection of the parapet.
Whilst none of the works were necessarily critical, a complete programme of work would future-proof the vital artery road in Newcastle, avoid the need for emergency ad-hoc work that cannot be avoided and maintain the bridge’s load capacity.
Many complexities delayed the start date until 2023, including a delay to all public infrastructure work in 2020 and the need to consult closely with the Tyne Kittiwake Partnership.
For over 70 years, the protected black-legged kittiwake species of birds has called the Tyne Bridge home in what is the furthest inland nest for the seabirds in the world.
After the colony featured in an edition of BBC Springwatch in 2010, Tyneside wildlife trusts and the Natural History Society of Northumbria set up the Tyne Kittiwake Partnership to ensure the vulnerable species’ health and wellbeing was maintained.
The agreement was to complete the main tower works outside of the kittiwake’s breeding season and set up temporary nests during the entire time the works are set to take place to reduce disruption as much as possible.