Tees Transporter Bridge

About

The Tees Transporter Bridge, the world’s oldest functioning transporter bridge, has long been a landmark of the River Tees. The iconic steel and concrete structure carries a travelling gondola across one of England’s most emblematic waterways, and in recent years it became a popular visitor attraction and a hub for extreme‑sport events such as abseiling and bungee jumps. However, the bridge was permanently closed in August 2019 after a safety assessment flagged significant structural concerns. A comprehensive refurbishment programme led by the Council and engineering partners is now underway, with construction slated to begin in 2027 and an expected reopening in 2032. Until then the bridge remains inaccessible to the public, though the adjacent visitor centre, opened in 2000, continues to offer guided tours and exhibitions about the bridge’s history.