'Compelling case' set out for new Tees bridge

A FORMER councillor claims there is a “compelling case” to build a pedestrian and cycle bridge crossing the River Tees between Redcar and Hartlepool.

- By STUART ARNOLD Local democracy reporter

At its shortest point about a mile separates the north and south banks of the River Tees. Inset: Philip Chisholm

(Philip Chisholm)

Philip Chisholm said it would cost a fraction of a fully-fledged road tunnel previously proposed by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen and could be built “within three years not decades”.

He said a bridge near to the mouth of the Tees, supported by shuttle buses at either end, could help connect to the Teesworks industrial site, allowing residents on the north side of the river to access job opportunities without a long, congested detour.

Lord Houchen and Teesworks' focus has largely been on vehicle journeys to date with a massive new park and ride scheme currently being constructed for workers using the site, along with a new entrance via a junction being created on the A1085 Trunk Road, near Redcar.