The final phase of restoration on Berwick Old Bridge, the town's historic Grade 1 Listed and Scheduled Monument, will commence in the New Year, following a year of intensive repairs.

The restoration project, which began earlier this year, has focused on complex masonry repairs to the bridge’s elevations and arch barrels. Work required special approval through Scheduled Monument Consent from Historic England, reflecting the bridge's significance as a 400-year-old icon of Berwick.

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While restoration efforts were temporarily paused in August to mark the bridge's 400th anniversary, engineers have continued throughout the year. However, unforeseen challenges, such as the need for additional repairs discovered during close-up inspections, and seasonal limitations on using lime mortar—only effective above 5°C—have extended the timeline.

To minimise disruption, the bridge will reopen to vehicles and pedestrians once scaffolding is removed early in the New Year. Restoration will then resume in late spring, or earlier if weather permits, to complete work beneath the structure. During this final phase, the bridge will close to traffic but will remain accessible to pedestrians.

The project is expected to conclude before the summer holidays, ensuring the bridge’s full restoration is completed while preserving its historical integrity for future generations.