Supporting a Landmark Restoration

The restoration of the Tyne Bridge is one of the most significant infrastructure projects currently taking place in the North East. As the multi-year programme progresses high above the river, a complex network of contractors, engineers and specialist marine teams are working together to keep both the workforce and the public safe. Among those supporting operations on the water, Sentry Boats is proud to provide dedicated water safety craft for this landmark project.

A once-in-a-generation restoration

The Tyne Bridge, a Grade II* listed structure and a defining symbol of the region, is undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment to preserve it for decades to come. The four-year programme involves extensive steelwork repairs, repainting, drainage upgrades, resurfacing and structural improvements to ensure the bridge remains safe and functional well into the future.

More than 1,200 individual repairs are expected across the structure, alongside masonry and concrete works, deck waterproofing and the replacement of ageing components. The project is scheduled to be completed in time for the bridge’s centenary in 2028, marking 100 years since its opening.

Scaffolding, encapsulated work areas and protective systems now surround large sections of the bridge, creating a controlled environment where specialist teams can carry out blasting, painting and structural repairs safely.

Working above a live river environment

Carrying out major engineering works over a tidal river introduces unique safety considerations. The River Tyne remains a busy waterway, and restoration activities require strict environmental and safety controls to protect both the river ecosystem and those working above it.

Measures are in place to ensure that debris, materials and contaminants are contained during blasting and repair works, while marine licensing conditions govern how the project operates near the water.

This environment demands constant vigilance and the presence of specialist safety support on the water below. That is where dedicated safety craft play a vital role.

The role of water safety craft

Throughout the restoration programme, Sentry Boats is supporting site operations by providing water safety craft positioned on the River Tyne during key phases of work. These vessels form an essential part of the project’s safety infrastructure, ready to respond quickly to any incident or emergency on or around the water.

With scaffolding and work platforms extending above the river, the ability to deploy trained crews and capable craft at short notice is critical. Water safety teams maintain continuous oversight of activity taking place overhead, ensuring rapid response capability while also supporting logistical coordination and site awareness from the river.

In large-scale infrastructure projects like this, water-based safety operations are not just precautionary — they are an integral part of maintaining safe working conditions. By providing reliable and purpose-built craft, Sentry Boats helps ensure that those working on the bridge can do so with confidence, knowing that robust safety measures are in place below.

Supporting regional infrastructure

The Tyne Bridge carries tens of thousands of vehicles every day and is a vital transport link between Newcastle and Gateshead. Restoring it is not only about preserving a historic structure, but also about protecting a key route for commuters, businesses and visitors across the region.

The project is expected to deliver long-term economic and community benefits, including job creation, skills development and increased tourism once the bridge is fully restored and repainted in its distinctive green finish.

As the work progresses in phases, with scaffolding gradually moving across different sections of the structure, marine safety support will continue to play an important role in maintaining safe operations throughout.

A collaborative effort

Large infrastructure projects rely on collaboration between multiple specialist teams. From engineers and construction crews to environmental specialists and marine safety providers, each plays a part in delivering a safe and successful outcome.

Sentry Boats is proud to support the restoration by providing dependable water safety craft and experienced crews who understand the demands of working in busy, high-risk environments. By maintaining a strong presence on the river, the team contributes to the overall safety framework that underpins this complex and historic project.

Looking ahead

As restoration continues and further phases of work move across the bridge structure, the presence of water safety craft will remain a constant and essential part of operations on the River Tyne. With completion planned ahead of the bridge’s 100th anniversary in 2028, the project will ensure this iconic landmark continues to serve the region for generations to come.

Sentry Boats is proud to play its role in supporting the safe delivery of this major engineering achievement — helping protect those working on one of the North East’s most recognisable landmarks while contributing to the success of a project that will shape the region’s future.