Work on the iconic Tyne Bridge has taken a significant step forward as scaffolding is set to span the River Tyne in the next phase of its comprehensive restoration project.
The ambitious operation follows the successful installation of scaffolding adjacent to the Newcastle tower. Now, Esh Construction, in collaboration with specialist contractor Infrastructure Site Solutions (ISS), is moving ahead with an underdeck scaffold structure that will stretch from the Newcastle tower to its counterpart on the Gateshead side, 84 feet above the river.
This latest phase will see operatives working underneath the bridge, securely fastened with safety harnesses and supported by a safety boat stationed below for emergency rescues.
The 100-metre-long by 11-metre-wide scaffold will allow for detailed inspections beneath the bridge, paving the way for subsequent cleaning, grit blasting, and repainting. To ensure safety and minimise environmental impact, the structure will be enclosed in protective sheeting throughout the work.
Gareth Dawson, Project Manager for Esh Construction, highlighted the progress made:
“A programme resequencing exercise has allowed the underdeck scaffolding to be actioned earlier than originally planned. The change in programme will provide efficiencies throughout the project given the scale of the repair and restoration work to be delivered – this scheme is far more than ‘just a lick of paint.’”
The restoration, commissioned by Newcastle and Gateshead councils, is a monumental undertaking. Over four years, it will use more than 180 miles of scaffolding tubes—enough to stretch from Newcastle to Dundee—and over 13,000 tonnes of scaffolding components, equivalent to the weight of six London Eyes.
The work is divided into 20 phases due to the bridge’s weight restrictions.
Cllr Dr Juna Staithan, Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for Climate Change and Transport, expressed her enthusiasm for the project:
“I am really delighted with the progress on site as we restore this icon to its former glory. Everyone involved is hugely proud and passionate to be part of this major project to preserve this much-loved icon for future generations.”
Major Repairs and a Historic Paint Job
Beyond the scaffolding, restoration work is advancing inside the bridge’s deck void, where three of the 36 steel hangers supporting the carriageway are set to undergo strengthening.
Repairs also include steel, concrete, stonework, and masonry restoration, along with drainage improvements, deck waterproofing, and parapet protection.
One of the restoration’s crowning achievements will be the bridge’s new coat of paint in the historic ‘Hollybush’ shade, chosen for its resemblance to the original colour. The new paint system is designed for durability and will protect the bridge for up to 30 years against the harsh conditions of the Tyne Valley gorge.
The restoration hit a major milestone in October when scaffolding around the Gateshead tower was dismantled, revealing the first section of blasted, repaired, and repainted steel.
With over 1,000 repairs planned, the Tyne Bridge restoration is as much about preserving history as it is about modernising infrastructure. As one of the North East’s most recognisable landmarks, the bridge will continue to be a symbol of regional pride for generations to come.
