New route opens in bid to fund bridge's repair

A NEW fund to repair crumbling infrastructure across Britain could offer a potential route to help fix Tyneside's broken Swing Bridge.

- DANIEL HOLLAND

It is more than five years since the rotating bridge successfully swung open, with major concerns having been raised over the state of the Victorian landmark ahead of the 150th anniversary of its completion in 2026.

Newcastle Central and West MP Dame Chi Onwurah has led calls for the grade II* listed crossing to be repaired, though bosses at Port of Tyne have repeatedly warned that the required repairs present a highly complex challenge.

On a trip to the North East last week to celebrate the confirmation of funding to complete the restoration of the neighbouring Tyne Bridge, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the launch of a new Structures Fund set up to inject cash into fixing up dilapidated bridges, crossings and flyovers.