New Tyne Bridge information hub officially opens on Newcastle Quayside
A new information hub for the Tyne Bridge restoration project was officially opened on Newcastle Quayside yesterday (8th January).
L-R Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, Andy Radcliffe, Esh’s Chief Executive and Cllr Martin Gannon, Leader of Gateshead Council.
Based at Lombard House, on Lombard Street, Leaders of Newcastle and Gateshead councils, were joined by Andy Radcliffe from Esh Construction, as part of the official opening.
The information hub offers information and updates about the ongoing works on the bridge as well as an opportunity to learn more about the history of the Tyneside landmark.
Visitors will have the opportunity to view behind the scenes imagery throughout the project as well as artefacts that have been saved during the repair programme. People will also be able to try virtual reality headsets, for a one-of-a-kind tour that immerses viewers into the history of the iconic North East landmark through 360-degree footage and archive content from over the years.
As well as welcoming visitors, the facility will also be used for educational visits and to host special events.
The restoration of the Tyne Bridge will see more than 1,000 steelwork repairs carried out, as well as grit blasting and re-painting, concrete repairs, drainage improvements, stonework and masonry repairs, bridge deck waterproofing and resurfacing, parapet protection and bridge joint replacement.
It’s a four-year project, with work nearing completion around the Gateshead tower and restoration work taking place behind the scaffolding on the Newcastle side and along the bridge deck, spanning the River Tyne.
Esh Construction is carrying out the work on behalf of Newcastle and Gateshead councils and the restoration is due to be completed in 2028, ahead of the bridge’s centenary.
Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “The Tyne Bridge is an iconic landmark and has a special place in people's hearts. There is a huge amount of interest in the work that’s taking place so we want to make sure people have access to information about what is happening and when.
“There’s also the opportunity to find out about the rich history of the bridge and a chance to see some behind the scenes photos of the restoration work being carried out.
“The space will also be used to host educational visits, from school children to engineering students, helping to inspire the next generation of engineers.
“I was delighted to be part of the official opening and meet some of the great frontline staff who are incredibly passionate about being part of this major restoration programme.”
Cllr Martin Gannon, Leader of Gateshead Council, said: “The restoration of the Tyne Bridge is a hugely impressive project. It’s important that everyone locally can understand the work required, the progress being made, and the investment we’re making to secure the future of the bridge.
“There have already been visits by the contractors to schools and care homes, and now this facility will allow more people to get close to the project.
“Well done to all involved in putting the information hub together.”
Andy Radcliffe, Esh’s Chief Executive, said: “It was a pleasure to be part of the formal opening of the Information Hub. We have worked hard to create an informative and engaging space for those who are interested in learning more about the project.
“We are passionate about making a difference within our local communities, and through our dedicated Stakeholder and Public Liaison Officer we want to take visitors on the journey with us as we deliver this significant programme of restoration for the region.”
The centre is open for drop ins on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am and 2pm, when staff will be on hand to answer questions.
Anyone can drop in during the opening hours, however we’d encourage any larger groups to book in advance. People can arrange an appointment to speak to someone from the team or organise a group visit to the centre by getting in touch.