Ferry service returns after storm damage repaired
NexusA ferry service will resume next week after storm damage caused its crossings to be suspended in late January.
The Shields Ferry, which runs across the River Tyne between North Shields and South Shields, has been closed since its north landing was damaged by Storm Chandra on 29 January.
Operator Nexus said it had now completed repairs and had installed monitoring equipment to track any movement of the landing and help identify if future suspensions are needed.
The company is still planning to open a new landing in North Shields next year, with managing director Cathy Massarella describing the existing structure as an "aged asset".
"The work we've carried out prolongs its use, but people can be reassured we are keeping a very close eye on the structure using this monitoring equipment," she said.
Nexus said the ferry was initially suspended after the landing's bolts were damaged in Storm Chandra, requiring the attention of specialist marine engineers.
It was expected to reopen by the end of February but suffered multiple delays as the company found more repairs were needed.
The ferry will return to service on Monday 27 April at 06:45 BST at the South Shields landing and will follow its normal timetable.
