LET'S TALK ABOUT THE TRANSPORTER BRIDGE

TEESSIDERS are being asked to give their views on the part the historic Transporter Bridge should play in the region's future.

An independent Transporter Taskforce has been set up to look into the next stage in the life of the bridge, one of the great symbols of the Tees Valley's industrial heritage, with a particular focus on how the bridge can be central to the area's culture, education, leisure and tourism.

The taskforce is chaired by Cllr Mieka Smiles, Middlesbrough Council's Executive Member for Communities and Education and brings together members and officers from Middlesbrough and Stockton Councils, and representatives of the Tees Valley Combined Authority.

The iconic Grade II* listed Tees Transporter Bridge, which opened in 1911, has been closed for over 18 months.

In December 2020, Middlesbrough and Stockton Councils agreed to jointly spend more than £650,000 on urgent repair works.

Due to strong public opinion, leaders at both councils have decided that if sufficient funding can be found, the bridge will be restored back to being fully operational. This financial commitment reflects the importance of the bridge to our identity, regeneration, and culture.

Cllr Smiles said: "The role of the Transporter Taskforce is to gather and review people's ideas - we want to hear from you how the bridge could be used.

"Let us know what you think about the culture, leisure, education, and heritage options for the future of the bridge. After the engagement exercise, we'll review all ideas and feedback, and make recommendations on the back of that public opinion."

• The engagement exercise to gather people's ideas will start on Monday, May 10 and will finish on Monday, May 31. To take part visit www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/talk-transporter

ENDS

Press Notice 6481. 10/05/21

Issued by Andrew Pain, Senior Communications Officer on 01642 729503.

www.middlesbrough.gov.uk

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