Spencer Group refurbishes one of the world’s oldest suspension bridges

The crossing over the River Tweed from Horncliffe in Northumberland to Fishwick in Berwickshire has a single span of 449ft (137m) and was the longest wrought iron suspension bridge in the world when it opened in 1820. Union Chain Bridge, which is both a Grade I listed building in England and a Grade A listed building in Scotland influenced the design of many other famous structures. It remains the world’s oldest suspension bridge still carrying traffic.

A funding bid was submitted to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) by Northumberland County Council, Scottish Borders Council, Museums Northumberland and community group the Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, amid concerns about the condition of the bridge.

Following the successful bid, Spencer Group was appointed by Northumberland County Council to dismantle the bridge and carry out a complete refurbishment and rebuilding work.

Ted Cawthorne, Honorary Treasurer of the Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, which was formed in 2014 and has more than 700 members, said: “It’s been an incredible job by Spencer Group and we’re absolutely delighted to have the bridge back. It’s a vital link between the communities on either side. The bridge is an important part of the local scene, so we’re very pleased to have it back fully installed and in use again.

“It looks wonderful and even more elegant than it did before. There are some differences that have been made during the restoration, with some necessary modern interventions, but that’s just a sign of this remarkable bridge moving with the times. It’s a terrific achievement and it means a great deal to us to have it restored and fit for use for another 150 to 200 years.”

Joe DiMauro, Engineering Director for Spencer Bridge Engineering, said: “It’s been a privilege and an honour for us to carry out this crucial heritage project.”

Spencer Group’s specialist bridges team carries out maintenance and repair work on some of the UK’s most famous bridges, including the Humber, Forth, Erskine, Severn and Menai bridges.