As the year draws to a close, the Union Chain Bridge connecting England and Scotland is undergoing final works ahead of re-opening. 
 

Restoration of the 202-year-old structure, the oldest vehicle suspension bridge in the world, got underway in October 2020 and it has been painstakingly restored back into position over the past 12 months. 
 

The aerial ropeway, more often seen in ski resorts, which allowed workers and components to traverse between the bridge towers high above the River Tweed  is starting to come down. 
 

Around 95% of the handrails are now in place and final painting work is continuing – although this work is weather-dependent as surfaces need to be dry and above 5 degrees C for the paint to be applied. 
 

The work will pause over the Christmas break before starting again in the New Year, with the focus being to complete the hand rails, painting and final construction works on the approaches to the bridge. 
 

As soon as possible the bridge will be reopened to pedestrians, cyclists and cars, with a more formal opening ceremony being held shortly afterwards and a separate celebration event also being planned early next year to showcase the whole project, covering both the refurbishment works and all of the community engagement and education activities. 

 
Northumberland County Council Cabinet Member for Local Services John Riddle said: “As the year ends it’s wonderful to reflect on this amazing engineering project and compare where we are now to just 12 months ago. 
 

“While we’re almost there we need it to be restored back to how it was for its original opening so it’s vital we don’t cut any corners at this late stage. Next year will be a very special time for everyone connected with this beautiful structure.” 
 

Councillor John Greenwell, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Roads Development and Maintenance, said: “This incredible restoration project is so close to completion but unsurprisingly winter weather conditions are now starting to bite and will have an impact on the final stages. 
 

“Early next year though the Union Chain Bridge will once again reopen to traffic and we’ll then be able to look back on the amazing work that it has taken to make this project a reality.” 

 
The structure which is a key transport link between Scotland and England and received £3.14million from The National Lottery Heritage Fund in September 2019.   

 
The ambitious funding bid was put together by Northumberland County Council, Scottish Borders Council, Museums Northumberland and community group Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, following serious concerns about the condition of the world-famous structure.  
 
As well as conserving the historic structure, the project team has also developed a comprehensive programme of community engagement and education activities.