The Bridge links Middlesbrough and Port Clarence and is a spectacular landmark on the River Tees

Ivor Crowther, Head of HLF North East, said: “Middlesbrough’s Transporter Bridge is an iconic structure for Middlesbrough and also stands as an important reminder of the town’s long steel and engineering heritage. The Heritage Lottery Fund is delighted to be able to support the Council’s ambitious restoration plans that will give visitors a far better experience and help everyone learn about its fascinating history.”

Kevin McCloud, author, broadcaster and designer, said: “The Transporter Bridge, sitting bang in the middle of Middlesbrough, is an extraordinary example of engineering, something long associated with this part of the world. The bridge also demonstrates the very British enthusiasm for practical problem-solving. This is why it’s great news that the Heritage Lottery Fund has invested £2.6m into the future of the bridge, enabling the local community and visitors to get involved with this special landmark in new and exciting ways.”

HLF’s grant will enable essential improvements to be undertaken, including installing new lifts and restoring the gondola and existing walkways. A range of educational activities will also be on offer such as trips to the Teesside Archives where people will have the chance to learn more about the bridge’s extensive history and workshops for local schools. Volunteers will be given opportunities to lead guided tours, arrange talks and help with important maintenance work.

Councillor Nicky Walker, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Transport, said: “The Transporter Bridge is a hugely important part of both Middlesbrough’s past and of its future, so this is fantastic news for the town and the region as a whole.The Transporter is an engineering icon and a landmark held dear by millions, and I’m delighted that that status has been given such tangible recognition. This is already a year of celebration with the centenary in October, and the modern improvements made possible by this grant will ensure the Transporter can continue both as a working bridge and as a major tourist attraction for many more decades to come.”

Councillor Mike Smith, Stockton Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, said: “This funding will enable a whole new era for the Transporter Bridge, so it’s tremendous news in its centenary year. As a flagship for the region, it does more than simply link the communities of Billingham and The Clarences with Middlesbrough.  This award will help bring the Transporter to the attention of many more people, who will enjoy a visit to this historic bridge.”

The project will benefit visitors by not only enjoying the panoramic view but also gaining a greater understanding of the history of the Bridge and the surrounding industrial heartland. These include:

• The installation of glass viewing lifts, giving visitors stunning views across the Tees Valley and a bird’s eye view of the former industrial heart of the region.
• Improvements to the walkway across the top to increase public access.
• Motor replacement to improve reliability, enhanced signage and improved lighting.
• Restoration work to the gondola, provision of a viewing area to the motor room, visitor centre upgrade.
• A seven-month programme of celebration events to raise awareness of the Bridge and the area’s heritage with a major celebration on its 100th anniversary.
  In recent years the Transporter has become a centre for extreme sports with regular events involving 1,500 visitors in bungee jumping, zip lining and abseiling from the structure.

Notes to editors

• ¹ A confirmed award means that money had already been earmarked by HLF for the project in question and that the full amount has now been secured.
• Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage.  HLF has supported more than 30,000 projects allocating £4.5billion across the UK.
• Images available on request. 

Further information

• Please contact Laura Bates 020 7591 6027 / 07915  608 729 / lbates@hlf.org.uk out of hours mobile: 07973 613 820.
• Angus Hoy, Senior Press Officer, Middlesbrough Council on 01642 729 502 / 07736 336 486.