The Swing Bridge and Tyne Bridge over the River Tyne in Newcastle. (Image: Iain Buist/Newcastle Chronicle)

Tyneside’s famous Swing Bridge looks certain to remain broken for its 150th anniversary next year. Bosses have been accused of “neglecting” the malfunctioning Victorian landmark, with little sign of its rotating mechanism being repaired – six years after the bridge last successfully swung open.

While Newcastle Central and West MP Chi Onwurah has led a campaign to have the Swing Bridge fixed in time to celebrate its 150th birthday in summer 2026, there have been concerns for years about the complexity of the job and significant funding it will require. Furious councillors warned on Monday morning that the situation had become “rather embarrassing”.

Members of Newcastle and

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