Middlesbrough Council has announced the completion of a project to upgrade the town's iconic Transporter Bridge, which aims to enhance its reliability.

New electric motors have been installed as part of a series of revamp schemes lined up for the landmark in time for centenary celebrations scheduled for next year. Local engineering firms RMB Deritend, Zenith Services, Konecranes UK, Mechanical Services and Quartz Electrical carried out the work, which saw the bridge close to pedestrians and motorists on 16 May.

RMB Deritend operations manager Mark Westwood said: "One of the main criteria within the tender document was for the original drive system to remain in place and recognise the heritage status of the site and treat it accordingly. "We achieved this by designing a bespoke solution which is built around the existing equipment and the 'old to new' concept is clearly visible."