With the news the government has finally handed over the £35m promised for the restoration of the Tyne Bridge, we thought it would be appropriate to look through some photos of the landmark being constructed almost 100 years ago.
Cash was promised for the rusting bridge by the Department of Transport in summer 2022 and a long delay saw tensions rise between local officials and the government.
Work can now begin on the four year restoration, marking the bridge's first maintenance since 2001. It is hoped the Grade II listed bridge will be returned to its former glory in time for its 100th anniversary in October 2028.
So, here are 13 photos showing the historic construction of the Tyne Bridge in the late 1920s. We have scenes of the workers, the grand opening and the old Tyne Bridge which used to stand in its place.
5. Grand opening
A postcard commemorating the opening of the Tyne Bridge Newcastle upon Tyne by George V on 10 October 1928. The photograph shows a procession led by the King's carriage which has crossed the bridge into Gateshead. A crowd has gathered on the bridge to watch the procession. All Soul's Church is to the right of the bridge.The Tyne Bridge was designed by Mott Hay and Anderson and was constructed between 1924 and 1928. | NL Photo: Newcastle Libraries
6. King George V
Official opening of the Tyne Bridge in Newcastle by King George V on 10 October 1928. Also present is Her Majesty Queen Mary and the Mayors of Gateshead and Newcastle upon Tyne. | NL Photo: Newcastle Libraries
7. View from the top
View along the Tyne Bridge looking towards Newcastle, as work on its construction continues, 6 March 1928 | TWAM Photo: Tyne & Wear Archives
8. Construction staff
Construction staff of the Tyne bridge, employed by Dorman Long & Co. Ltd, 2 March 1928 . Standing left to right: J. Morgan (Foreman Mason), W. Kingston (Cashier), K. Addison (General Foreman), F. Conaron (Chief Timekeeper), F. Atkinson (Chief Storekeeper). Seated left to right: O.T.R. Leishman (Engineer 2), J. Geddie (Chief Assistant), J. Ruck (Agent), G.I.B. Gowring (Engineer 1), E.W.C. Symes (Engineer 3), W. Pattison (Foremen Carpenter). Seated on ground: F.D.S. Sandeman (Junior). | TWAM Photo: Tyne & Wear Archives