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Chronicle Live
Chronicle Live
National
Alex Challies

"It really is overdue" - what Geordies think of calls to restore the Tyne Bridge

The world-famous Tyne Bridge is the undisputed centrepiece for all of Newcastle, having stood proudly along the banks of the river Tyne since 1928.

In recent years however the bridge had begun to pale in comparison to its former glory. The last time the bridge was repainted was in the year 2000, so many are now calling for overdue maintenance and a fresh coat of paint for the iconic landmark.

Minor painting works were carried out in 2010/11, but with the paint system designed to last approximately 20 years, more major work is urgently required.

Funding is being requested from the Government in the hopes the bridge can be repaired and repainted in time for its 100th birthday, in 2028 - and the Chronicle is backing the calls.

We asked people on Newcastle Quayside what they thought of the campaign to restore the Tyne Bridge.

Chris Mitchell from Gateshead gestured to the Tyne Bridge as he said, "Anything that brings it back to its former glory, fantastic! I'm born and bred in Gateshead, literally just moved back a couple of months ago and this is just iconic to me."

Bob Brian from Sheffield spoke highly of the bridge, "The bridge is just fantastic, you know whenever I think of Newcastle the bridge is the first thing I think of."

"I think it's a really iconic part of Newcastle's history. It's recognised nationally and even internationally. Having a fresh lick of paint would really bring something new and vibrant to the city." said Zoe Parkin from Newcastle.

Rory Mackenzie, a tourist from Edinburgh said, "The Tyne is almost the centre of Newcastle, at least from a tourist's perspective. I think this would showcase the river in a very appropriate manner."

Newcastle resident Alice Thwaite said, "It really is overdue. When I arrived here about 35 years ago from the South, the Tyne Bridge used to be repainted every few years."

"It hasn't been done in quite a few years so it really is getting quite dangerous now probably. It would be lovely to have it repainted."

John Buckley from Manchester said, "As far as I'm concerned, this bridge is iconic and whenever I think of Newcastle this bridge is a main feature to the city."

"So as a visitor, which I am today, long may it be maintained and preserved."

The Tyne Bridge was officially opened on October 10 1928 by King George V, and it is hoped that his granddaughter, the Queen, would be attending the 100th-anniversary celebrations.

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