Tyne Bridge Restoration Enters a Critical Phase

The Tyne Bridge, a much-loved symbol of North East England, is undergoing an ambitious four-year restoration to preserve its iconic presence for generations to come.

As part of this monumental project, scaffolding is now set to span the River Tyne in the latest phase of work—a key step in a restoration that is as much about engineering excellence as it is about honouring history.

Scaffolding Spanning the Tyne

Esh Construction, working alongside specialist scaffolding contractor Infrastructure Site Solutions (ISS), is currently constructing a suspended underdeck scaffold structure that will stretch 100 metres across the Tyne Bridge, from Newcastle’s tower to Gateshead’s. This scaffold, 11 metres wide, will support teams as they carry out intricate inspections, cleaning, grit blasting, and painting.

Crews will be suspended 84 feet above the River Tyne, equipped with safety harnesses, while a safety boat patrols below for emergency rescue readiness. Wrapped in protective sheeting, the scaffold ensures safety and containment for operatives, the environment, and the public, preventing debris or contaminants from entering the river.

Innovative Planning for Maximum Efficiency

A recent adjustment to the project schedule has fast-tracked the underdeck scaffolding phase. “A programme resequencing exercise has allowed the underdeck scaffolding to be actioned earlier than originally planned,” explains Gareth Dawson, Esh Construction’s Project Manager. “This scheme is far more than ‘just a lick of paint.’ The change will provide efficiencies throughout the project given the scale of the repair and restoration work to be delivered.”

The project, funded by Newcastle and Gateshead councils, is an engineering marvel in its own right. Over the course of the restoration, a staggering 180 miles of scaffolding tubes will be used—enough to stretch from Newcastle to Dundee. The scaffold’s total weight exceeds 13,000 tonnes, equivalent to six London Eyes, necessitating a phased installation to respect the bridge’s loading constraints.

Preserving an Iconic Landmark

The Tyne Bridge’s restoration is no ordinary paint job. As a Grade II listed structure, every detail demands precision and care. The bridge’s original paint colour, a British Standard 4800 shade called ‘Hollybush,’ has been faithfully recreated for historical accuracy. This specially selected paint boasts high durability, UV resistance, and protection against the Tyne Valley gorge’s harsh weather, ensuring the bridge remains pristine for the next 30 years.

Beyond aesthetics, the restoration includes over 1,000 structural repairs encompassing steel, concrete, stonework, and masonry.

Additional upgrades include:

• Drainage Improvements: Enhancing water management to protect the structure.

• Bridge Deck Waterproofing: Preventing water infiltration that could weaken the bridge.

• Parapet Protection and Joint Replacement: Strengthening vital elements for long-term resilience.

• Carriageway Hanger Repairs: Addressing three critical hangers supporting the East footpath.

Gateshead Tower Restored

In October, a significant milestone was reached as scaffolding around the Gateshead tower was dismantled, revealing a meticulously restored section of the bridge. This unveiled area showcased newly blasted, repaired, and painted steel, demonstrating the painstaking care being taken to revitalise the structure.

Commitment to Excellence and Sustainability

Esh Construction’s dedication to health, safety, and innovation underpins the project’s success. By partnering with specialists like ISS and adhering to rigorous environmental and safety standards, the team is setting a benchmark for future restoration projects.

Councillor Dr Juna Staithan, Newcastle City Council’s cabinet member for Climate Change and Transport, praised the restoration effort: “The team behind the restoration programme have really hit the ground running since they’ve been on site. Everyone involved is hugely proud and passionate to be part of this major project to preserve this much-loved icon for future generations.”

Esh Construction’s Vision

Esh Construction has a proven track record of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects across the North of England and Yorkshire. Guided by its ‘Constructing Local’ strategy, the company integrates social value into its operations, supporting the communities it serves while maintaining an uncompromising focus on quality and safety.

This restoration showcases not only Esh’s engineering expertise but also its commitment to historical preservation and sustainable practices. By investing in new technologies and workforce development, Esh ensures that projects like the Tyne Bridge restoration exceed expectations.

A Bridge for Future Generations

As the Tyne Bridge restoration progresses, it represents far more than structural repair—it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the North East. With its iconic arch restored to its original glory and reinforced to withstand the challenges of the future, the bridge will continue to connect communities and inspire pride for decades to come.