First milestone reached on Tyne Bridge restoration
The installation and encapsulation of the Gateshead quayside scaffold has marked the first key milestone on the major programme of work to restore the Tyne Bridge.
Image Credit: Andrew Heptinstall Photography
Appointed contractor, Esh Construction, is now set to commence work on the main restoration programme on 2 April, when work will move on to the main bridge deck.
Ahead of the kittiwake nesting season, the newly constructed scaffold has been fully encapsulated with a white sheeting to protect the surrounding environment during the project.
To mitigate for the reduced nesting provision on the bridge deck ledges, two structures dubbed ‘kittiwake hotels’, have been installed on the roof of both Gateshead towers ready for the kittiwakes to return.
Esh Construction commenced work on the first phase of the Tyne Bridge restoration last September following the Great North Run and the departure of the kittiwakes, using the councils’ contribution to the project costs. This was to ensure works got started at the earliest opportunity outside of the kittiwake breeding season.
The scaffold adjacent to the Gateshead tower and above ‘By the River Brew’ will provide access for grit blasting, repairs and painting works below the bridge deck. Grit blasting is required to remove the existing paint and allow steelwork repairs to be undertaken before the surface can be re-painted.
The Government signed off £35.2 million on 2 February 2024 towards the cost of two projects: the restoration of the Tyne Bridge and the A167 Central Motorway improvements. The council still await confirmation of the remaining £6 million which was announced as part of the Network North plan in October.
Significant disruption is expected when bridge traffic is reduced to one lane in each direction in April and people are being urged to plan ahead, utilising public transport where possible. More information on travel advice and journey planning can be found at the dedicated webpage Travel Advice.
