| 25th Nov, 2025 Online event |
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Union Chain Bridge, opened in 1820, is the world's oldest vehicular suspension bridge. By the 2010s, extensive deterioration necessitated major renewal of the full structure to provide a 120-year design life. Completed in 2023, Northumberland County Council led a comprehensive scheme involving full dismantling, detailed inspection and targeted replacement or refurbishment of chain components, utilising innovative access methods to avoid in-river works. Works included new anchorages, replacement high-yield steel hangers, a redesigned timber deck, parapet refurbishment, masonry restoration and removal of the 1903 wire rope system. The scheme provides valuable lessons on methodology, consultant involvement and long-term maintenance planning. In the first of our two webinars on this topic, we will explore the historical and technical challenges of the bridge and proposals for the refurbishment. |
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| Email: | customers@HistoricEngland.org.uk |
| Website: | historicengland.org.uk/education/training-skills/training/webinars/technical-tuesdays/ |
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