Celebrations mark reopening of historic bridge
On Friday 25 September, the iconic Whorlton Suspension Bridge in Barnard Castle was reopened.
The Grade II* listed structure spans the River Tees linking the town to surrounding communities, and a complex programme of specialist engineering, conservation and construction works were used to preserve it.
VolkerLaser was contracted by VolkerStevin and Durham County Council via the NEPO Framework to undertake the specialist works. The bridge was carefully dismantled, with around 1,800 individual components inspected and tested. New foundations have been constructed at the north and south end of the bridge to anchor the structure, and original elements were repaired and refurbished wherever possible.
Replacement components were also created where necessary, before the structure was painstakingly reassembled. The final phase of works included the installation of chains, structural rods, decking, protective barriers and repairs to the masonry.
Cllr Tim McGuinness, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for rural, farming and transport, said: “We are extremely pleased and proud to have completed the restoration of Whorlton Bridge. This has been a complex and extensive programme that will preserve this iconic landmark, which can now be used and enjoyed for generations to come.
“We’d like to thank residents, businesses and visitors for their patience and cooperation throughout the project. We’re excited to see the bridge back in use and enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and visitors.”
Originally opened in 1831, Whorlton Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United Kingdom and is recognised as a structure of national historic significance. To mark the reopening, a ceremony was held and attended by representatives from the council, Historic England and specialist contractor VolkerLaser, alongside more than 100 residents of Whorlton Village.
During the event, musicians Rosie Bradford and Sam Slatcher performed a bespoke folk song celebrating the bridge and its history. The restoration has also been documented on film, capturing the scale and complexity of the project.
The project has been partly funded by the Department for Transport’s Levelling Up Fund and the council.
