The story of one of Tyneside’s most impressive industrial age icons was saved from decades of decay has proved so popular that an event showcasing the transformation has completely sold out.
A series of tours and talks describing how Robert Stephenson’s High Level Bridge was thoroughly restored has proved so popular that it is now fully booked, just weeks after being advertised and nearly a month before the event.
‘How to fix a bridge in four minutes’ was a new opportunity to find out exactly how the ground breaking work to repair years of decay was carried out as part of the Heritage Open Days Programme. With a talk on the work, video presentation and a walk to get up close and personal with one of the Stephenson’s most lasting legacies those lucky enough to have got in early look set for a treat.
Gateshead Council cabinet member for culture Cllr Linda Green said: “The High Level Bridge is one of those enduring images of Tyneside, with the name of a world famous engineer attached to it, so I’m not surprised that the interest in this event has proved to be so high.”
Whilst there might be dozens disappointed that they have missed their chance to get t to know Robert Stephenson’s 159 years old, 1,300 foot long High Level Bridge and the work carried out during the £40m restoration of this Grade I listed river there are plenty of other Heritage Open Days events to get excited about.
The Baltic Flour Mill and it’s transformation from derelict grain product storage site to world renowned art gallery is the focus of another event with a behind the scenes tour of what is now the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Arts.
Another icon of modern Tyneside, The Sage Gateshead is hosting another new event giving visitors a free chance to see the impressive Hall One at this awe inspiring Norman Foster designed structure and perhaps even a rare glimpse of performances.
At the other end of the scale, in size if not in artistic merit, the volunteer run Little Theatre with it’s unique atmosphere and art deco style situated opposite Saltwell Park offers a rare chance to see the huge wardrobe amassed over the years since its 1943 opening.
Over 190 sites across the North East are taking part in Heritage Open Days this year, with nearly 50 in Gateshead alone. Cllr Linda Green said: “I think most people realise just how much the North East is steeped in history, but this event offers a chance to see that history close up in person.”
Other sites in Gateshead holding free events as part of Heritage Open Days include the Banqueting House at Gibside, Path Head Watermill and the rare 1690s Winlaton Cottage Forge.
More information on Heritage Open Days can be found in leaflets on Heritage Open Days throughout Tyne and Wear available from any library in Gateshead.