World's oldest vehicle suspension bridge closes after inspection identifies 'manufacturing issue'
Last updated 10th Jun 2024
It only reopened last year following a major restoration project.
The world's oldest vehicle suspension bridge carries traffic over the River Tweed near Berwick.
But the Union Chain Bridge - which links Scotland and England - has closed again after an inspection identified some snagging issues.
Every single piece of the 203-year-old structure was removed, checked and restored or replaced before being carefully reassembled as part of a £10.5 million project to safeguard it for future generations.
However, as well as some "premature wear", Northumberland County Council revealed further investigation has also identified a manufacturing issue with some of the decking panels.
The bridge is expected to be closed for up to five weeks to allow them to be replaced.
Contractors will also use the time to finish works which weren’t able to be completed last year – including within the Scottish and English towers.
Paul Jones, Director of Environment and Transport at Northumberland County Council, said: “The restoration of the Union Chain Bridge was a hugely challenging engineering scheme combining the latest techniques along with centuries old craftsmanship and materials.
“While it was important to get the main works completed and the bridge open, there were some non-critical elements which we need the contractor to complete, as well as some work to replace a number of the bridge deck panels under warranty.
“It’s great to see the bridge being so well used again, and we apologise for the inconvenience, but we want the work to be done while the weather is better and ahead of the main summer holiday season.”
A diversionary route will be signed throughout the closure period.
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