Bridge to remain closed as council seeks funding
BBCA bridge will remain closed to motorists after an inspection found it was in a "poor" condition.
Heugh Street Bridge runs over the River Drive in South Shields and was closed to vehicles in November after a review by South Tyneside Council found a more detailed inspection was needed.
The assessment found "significant deterioration" on key structural elements of the 85-year-old bridge meaning it will remain shut to traffic but it is safe for pedestrians.
The council said it was assessing options for the bridge and had applied for money from the Department of Transport's Structures Fund.
A spokesman for the Labour-led council said: "This does not relate to a confirmed scheme or cost but ensures potential funding routes can be explored alongside detailed feasibility work."
The bridge was initially expected to reopen after six months.
It was previously used by about 5,000 vehicles a day.
The council said the bridge would "continue to be subject to enhanced monitoring and inspections".
The spokesman added: "Further updates will be provided as this work progresses."
