The Conservation of the Union Bridge

This lecture explain the wonderful conservation work that has been carried out in recent years to the Union Chain Bridge. When it opened in 1820 it was the longest wrought iron suspension bridge in the world with a span of 137 metres, and the first vehicular bridge of its type in the United Kingdom. The deck of the bridge was completely dismantled during the process of conservation.

The speakers will be Edward Cawthorn, Honorary Secretary of the Friends of the Union Chain Bridge, and Simon Rudman, Engineering Design Manager of Northumberland County Council.

Edward will lead, covering the fascinating history of the bridge and the conservation project. Simon will discuss some of the detailed conservation dilemmas that confronted the project team when they were preparing for and during the works.