AFTER 18 months the Transporter Bridge is reopening following the renovation of the 103-year-old bridge’s gondola.

The unveiling on Monday, March 9 will be celebrated with four weeks of free crossings for drivers and foot-passengers.

It will now be open from 7.15am to noon and 1pm to 6.15pm, Monday to Friday and from 9.30am to noon and 1pm to 3pm on Saturdays.

After the initial free period, the cost of crossing the bridge will be 60p each way for pedestrians and cyclists. Single-bay motor vehicles will be charged £1.30 each way.

The work marks the end of the latest stage in the Tees Transporter Bridge Visitor Experience Project – a £2.6m Heritage Lottery Fund scheme which features new glass sidings offering views along the River Tees.

The Bridge Saver Card scheme will continue with 20 trips for motor vehicles costing £23.40 and £10.80 for pedestrians and cyclists.

Work on the Transporter’s new lift, improvements to the visitor centre and the interpretation and heritage trail is due to be completed in May.

Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “With a smart new coat of paint and the new gondola in place, we were keen to allow bridge users to start using it again as soon as possible.

“I would also like to place on record my thanks to users of the Transporter for their patience and understanding during the works, and we look forward to welcoming them back.”