South Tyneside Council has submitted a bid to the Department for Transport’s Structures Fund seeking support for the replacement of Heugh Street Bridge in South Shields.
If successful, the funding would enable the Council to undertake a full replacement of the bridge at an estimated cost of £21 million, allowing vehicular traffic to be reinstated on River Drive.
The Structures Fund is a Government initiative designed to support local authorities with the repair, strengthening or replacement of highway structures that they would otherwise be unable to afford to maintain.
The fund focuses on structures that have deteriorated, are at risk of failure or are vulnerable to extreme weather, helping to improve the resilience of local transport networks and deliver safer, more reliable journeys.
Heugh Street Bridge has been closed to all vehicular traffic since November 2025 following structural concerns identified through detailed inspections.
Councillor Paul Mackings, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “We know how important Heugh Street Bridge is to residents, businesses and everyone who relies on this route.
“Submitting this bid is a significant step towards securing the investment needed to provide a long-term solution for the bridge and restore traffic access on River Drive.
“A full replacement would ensure the route can continue to serve the community for many years to come, improving connectivity and supporting future economic growth in the area.”
Prior to its closure, the Heugh Street bridge carried around 5,000 vehicles a day.
The Council has continued to investigate long-term options for the structure, with detailed assessments confirming that the bridge must remain closed to vehicular traffic while a permanent solution is pursued.
Pedestrian access remains in place and the bridge continues to be subject to enhanced monitoring and regular inspections.
The outcome of the Structures Fund bid is expected to be announced by the Department for Transport in autumn 2026.
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