The Tyne Bridge will close from 23 October to 2 November while scaffolders install an overhead protection deck for the next stage of its restoration.
The structure will span the carriageway and footpaths, allowing the crossing to remain in use when work moves onto the main steel arch in early 2027.
According to Newcastle City Council’s latest project update, crews will work around the clock during the closure. Independent scaffold legs will run along both footpaths, with a new arrangement on the east side mirroring the existing west-side scaffold.
Twin aluminium beams will span between the footpaths to form the deck’s main structure. Scaffold boards and temporary carriageway lighting will complete the installation, providing a working platform and protection for the public below.
The bridge will shut to vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists at 11pm on Friday 23 October and reopen at 5am on Monday 2 November. The council said the scaffold cannot be erected safely over the full width of the crossing while it remains in public use.
Up to 70% of the protection deck is expected to be completed during the full closure. The remainder will be installed during weekday overnight vehicle closures lasting up to four weeks in November, subject to weather. Pedestrian and cycle access will remain available during those overnight closures.
The new deck follows the parapet scaffolding phase reported by Scaffmag in September 2025. Work on the east-side parapets is now nearing completion.
Esh Construction is delivering the restoration for Newcastle City Council and Gateshead Council. Main arch work will include grit blasting, steelwork repairs and a three-coat protective paint system finished in Hollybush Green.
A 4.95m vehicle height restriction will be introduced to accommodate the protection deck. Double-decker buses will not be affected.
The council said the wider programme remains on schedule to finish ahead of the bridge’s centenary in October 2028.
