Major milestones reached in restoration of historic Whorlton Suspension Bridge
Our specialist team working on the Whorlton Suspension Bridge in County Durham has made excellent progress in recent weeks, successfully achieving several key project milestones.
Originally opened in 1831, the Whorlton Suspension Bridge is a Grade II listed structure and a scheduled monument of national historic importance. It is recognised as the UK’s oldest road suspension bridge, with its deck entirely supported by its original wrought iron chains—making its preservation and restoration particularly complex and sensitive.
Following an extensive redesign phase, which included a detailed trial build of the new timber bridge deck to ensure accuracy and compatibility with the historic structure, the team moved into a critical phase of works in April: the reinstallation of the suspension chains. Over a carefully sequenced four-week programme, all chains were successfully installed across the River Tees, spanning from anchor to anchor. During this phase, wrought iron fascias were also fixed, reinstating key elements of the bridge’s historic character.
Once the chains were in place, comprehensive surveys were undertaken. Precise adjustments were then carried out to achieve the correct chain profile, ensuring it could safely and effectively accommodate the new bridge deck. This stage was crucial in balancing structural performance with the preservation of the bridge’s original engineering form.
With the suspension chains fully reinstated, attention turned to preparing the bridge superstructure. This included the installation of the required bracketry, designed to support the new deck.
This week marks another significant step forward, as the team has commenced installation of the new bridge deck. The first longitudinal and primary transverse beams have now been successfully fixed into position, signalling the transition from preparatory works to visible reconstruction of the crossing.
In parallel, works have also progressed on the reinstallation of the masonry wing walls, which form an integral part of the bridge approaches.
Despite the complexities of working on a structure of this age and significance, the project continues to progress well. Through careful planning, specialist expertise, and close collaboration, the team remains firmly on track to achieve completion in August 2026.
