And the wait goes on for the much-anticipated reopening of the iconic Transporter Bridge...
After numerous setbacks Middlesbrough Council had anticipated finally putting the newly renovated landmark back into operation this month.
But those hopes have been dashed by an electrical fault, leading to “a further unforeseen delay”, said the authority.
As reported, the historic bridge has undergone £2.6m Heritage Lottery Fund upgrade works and repainting of the structure.
The delay is the latest setback in what was originally planned as an eight-month closure to overhaul and upgrade the bridge, install a new glass viewing lift and visitor centre, further establishing it as a major tourist attraction.
But during the initial closure period additional preparation work was identified, resulting in significant extension to the closure.
The bridge - which celebrated its 100th birthday in October 2011 - has been closed since August 2013 and the Gazette reported previously how the costs for the project had spiralled from a planned £3.1m to £4m.
The council says the shortfall of £897,580 is proposed to be covered from the unallocated Local Transport Plan grant.
Work stalled again over the Christmas period after subcontractor SBV Fabrications went into administration. Commenting on the latest setback a spokesman for Middlesbrough Council said: “The renovation of the Transporter Bridge has suffered a number of delays during the works programme which have been frustrating for all those involved.
“During the process of testing the gondola in preparation for re-opening, an electrical supply fault has occurred which is being repaired but has led to a further unforeseen delay.
“We would like to apologise to Transporter Bridge users who we know are keen to see it back in action and thank them for their patience and understanding during this process.”
The council was unable to give a new date when Teessiders might expect to finally see their much-loved bridge in operation.
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