'Can we actually have the money?' - Gateshead MP questions Tyne Bridge renovation funding delay in Parliament

The Member of Parliament for Gateshead, Ian Mearns, has questioned Prime Minister Rishi Sunak over a delay in funding for the Tyne Bridge renovation works.

The Government announced a £41.4million funding package for the Tyne Bridge and upgrades to the Central Motorway in June 2022.

Work on the Tyne Bridge is set to include repairs to the steelwork, grit blasting, re-painting, concrete repairs, drainage improvements, stonework and masonry repairs, bridge deck waterproofing and resurfacing, parapet protection and bridge joint replacement.

The major part of the renovation work is due to start this year; however, the Gateshead MP has highlighted during Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) in the House of Commons on Wednesday, January 17, that the funding has still not been signed off.

Mr Means said: "In June 2022, to some fanfare, the Government announced the approval of £41million for a package of works for the restoration of the Tyne Bridge.

"It is the route of the A167, the old A1, connects Gateshead with Newcastle city centre and is instantly recognisable around the world as an emblem of Tyneside.

"However, the funding is still awaiting sign off within the Department of Transport and work cannot progress.

"So given the scale and complexity of the work that is required, and the significant additional cost implications if funding doesn't come forward, can we actually have the money to get on with the work so the Bridge will be ready for its centenary celebrations in 2028?"

The Prime Minister assured the Gateshead MP that he will chase the project up with the Department of Transport for an update.

Mr Sunak commented: "I'll ensure that the relevant minister gets back to him with an update on the project.

"I'm pleased not to be just investing in that project in his area but also, I know his area has received levelling-up funding worth £20million to help transform the visitor economy in Gateshead.

"Yet more examples of this Government investing to level up across the North and across the country."

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The work has been strongly backed by political leaders across the North East, with 23 of them signing a cross-party letter of support in July last year.

The current state of the Tyne Bridge is a talking point among many on Tyneside and it has now been more than 20 years since it was last refurbished.

Leaders in the region is are keen to get the work underway so it can be completed in time for the Bridge's centenary celebrations in 2028.