7 bridges (and a famous arch) built by Darlington’s Cleveland Bridge

THE announcement that Cleveland Bridge has called in the administrators is sending shockwaves across the region – and will no doubt shock people beyond.

That’s because the Darlington-based firm, which began in 1877, has played a huge part in the construction of dozens of well-known bridges across the UK, and the world.

From bridges in Stockton, London and even Australia, Cleveland Bridge has been behind some of the most challenging and famed designs known to date.

BREAKING: Hundreds of jobs at risk as Darlington’s Cleveland Bridge ‘calls in administrators’

Following today’s shock announcement, we’re looking back at the company’s rich history and looking at some of the bridges built or designed by Cleveland Bridge.

King Edward VII Bridge, Newcastle – 1906

One of the North East’s most recognisable bridges, the King Edward VII bridge has connected Newcastle and Gateshead since 1906.

Built by Cleveland Bridge, it carries the East Coast Mainline between Edinburgh and London and sits a staggering 34m above the high water mark.

Although grand in size, the bridge features multiple walkways on the level below the rail lines which are not accessible to the public.

Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge – 1911

The Northern Echo:

An icon of North East industry, the Transporter Bridge was designed by Cleveland Bridge and opened to the public in 1911. 

Connecting Middlesbrough to the south bank of Port Clarence, spanning 174m over the River Tees, the bridge is described as the largest of its kind in the world.

Sydney Harbour Bridge – 1932

The Northern Echo: The Sydney Harbour Bridge was constructed by Cleveland Bridge in 1932

As previously mentioned, Cleveland bridge isn’t just well known for its work in the North East.

One of the most famous bridges, the Sydney Harbour Bridge was designed and built by Cleveland Bridge, along with Dorman Long Co Ltd, before it was opened in 1932.

Today, the bridge in Australia is responsible for carrying the equivalent of 50m vehicles safely across it each year.

Severn Bridge, Severn Estuary – 1966 

The Northern Echo: Picture: DAVID BARNESPicture: DAVID BARNES

Located in Bristol, the Severn Bridge spans 988m across the River Severn and is quite the spectacle.

The bridge, which at the time was the second-largest suspension bridge in Europe, was built and opened to the public in 1966.

The bridge was actually designed by Messrs Mott, Hay & Anderson and Freeman Fox & Partners, with Fairfield Shipbuilding and Engineering Co Ltd brought in as contractors.

Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, London – 1991

The Northern Echo:

The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge in London carries the four southbound lanes of the M25, and is used by millions of drivers per year.

The bridge, which opened in 1991, saw construction carried out by Cleveland Bridge and upon completion was the largest cable-supported bridge in Europe.

Infinity Bridge, Stockton – 2009

The Northern Echo:

Another iconic sight in the North East, formerly known as North Shore Footbridge, the Infinity Bridge in Stockton opened in 2009.

The eye-catching bridge was partly designed by Cleveland Bridge, who lead the overall design of the structure.

The company’s sister company, Dorman Long Technology then completed the full building of the bridge. 

Wembley Stadium (arch) – 2005

The Northern Echo:

Although this isn’t a bridge, Cleveland Bridge were involved in the design of that all-famous Wembley Stadium arch.

The stadium opened in 2005 and was thrown into the spotlight again two weeks ago with the finals of the Euro 2020.

To follow live updates from The Northern Echo on Cleveland Bridge – click here

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