The truth behind the Transporter Bridge is as complex as you might imagine.

From the moment the bridge was erected across the River Tees back in 1911, the structure has been an icon of the region, symbolising Teesside's rich industrial heritage.

It's looked upon very fondly by those born and living in the area, so when it closed in 2019 over safety concerns, it sparked fears that cars may never be carried over the water again.

It's now been six years since the Transporter was closed, and in that time, the bridge has been branded an "imminent risk", added to the Heritage At Risk Register, and seen several promises from politicians to save it.

But away from the political battlefield, what is the truth behind the future of the 225ft-tall landmark and the ongoing works to save it?

The Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough (Image: STUART BOULTON / THE NORTHERN ECHO)

The Transporter Bridge is jointly owned by Middlesbrough Council and Stockton Council, although Middlesbrough take the lead on managing it.

The bridge's closure may have came about due to safety concerns, but since then, Middlesbrough Council has worked with a number of stakeholders and partners to assess its condition and explore future maintenance and restoration options.

Around £1.77m has been spent since 2019 on emergency works, surveys, assessments, repairs, lighting and the installation of digital monitoring, with the costs shared between both local authorities.

The Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough (Image: STUART BOULTON / THE NORTHERN ECHO)

Digital monitoring has been installed to keep track of the structure’s overall condition - using more than 100 sensors - and principal contractors will be appointed in the new year to draw up detailed designs for restoration.

Next year could be a milestone year for the bridge, with preliminary design options for strengthening and repair works expected by the middle of next year.

Then comes a major decision; should it be kept as a fully operating transporter bridge, or should it be turned into a static landmark?

The answer to the question will likely boil down to one thing: funding.

The future of the Transporter Bridge has remained a key talking point amongst politicians ever........

© The Northern Echo