Scotswood Bridge

Scotswood Bridge is a steel through arch spanning the River Tyne, featuring a suspended box girder deck beneath the arch structure. The main span extends 100.5 meters, carrying the A695 road with separate lanes for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians across the river.

Construction began in 1964 and the bridge opened on March 20, 1967, replacing an earlier suspension bridge from 1831. It represented a shift toward modern infrastructure design to handle growing traffic demands in the region.

The bridge connects Newcastle's west end to the MetroCentre and Blaydon, serving as a vital passage that shapes how people move through the region. Commuters and local travelers use it daily as part of their routine, alongside those walking or cycling across.

Located roughly 5 kilometers upstream from central Newcastle, the bridge is straightforward to reach by car, bike, or foot. Dedicated paths exist for all types of travelers, and the crossing remains accessible in all seasons.

Between 1971 and 1974, traffic was restricted to a single lane while engineers carried out reinforcement work to address initial structural concerns. This visible overhaul demonstrated how the design was adapted to serve heavier traffic loads than originally anticipated.

Location: Tyne and Wear

Inception: 1964

Official opening: March 20, 1967

Made from material: steel

GPS coordinates: 54.96700,-1.69000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:03