05/05/2026
RIVER DRIVE BRIDGE CONDEMNED
Many residents and businesses have been seeking an update on when the Heugh Street Bridge on River Drive will re-open, but have received no information from the council or the councillors representing the Beacon and Bents ward.
I promised to obtain an update and, over recent weeks, have used my contacts within the council and beyond to do so.
I can now confirm that disruption caused by the bridge’s sudden closure will continue for at least another 24 to 36 months.
The bridge was closed to vehicle traffic in November 2025 for a safety inspection, with the public initially told it would remain shut for around six months.
In January 2026, the council awarded a £109,000 contract to AECOM Ltd (via NEPO and Northumberland County Council) to carry out detailed inspections, risk assessments, and computer modelling on two bridges, including Heugh Street Bridge.
Having seen the report, I can confirm the news is extremely concerning. The bridge has been condemned, is beyond repair, and will need to be replaced.
Replacement is estimated to cost £20 million, potentially rising to £23 million. The council does not have this funding without further borrowing, adding to its already significant debt.
The council is now preparing a funding bid to the Department for Transport’s Structures Fund. Applications close on 3 August 2026, with decisions expected in the autumn. Any successful project must be completed by March 2030.
Disruption and traffic problems will therefore continue for some time. I will continue to monitor developments and update residents as information becomes available.
My independent colleagues and I will also be pressing for the fastest possible outcome to minimise disruption and inconvenience.
