THE High Level Bridge between Newcastle and Gateshead is to be closed to pedestrians until restoration work is complete.
The move, requested by Network Rail, will allow work on the bridge to be carried out more safely and quickly.
Restoration of the Grade I-listed structure, which is also a scheduled ancient monument, will now be completed by summer 2008.
Gateshead Council had already agreed to temporarily close the footpath during the Christmas holiday period due to repeated vandalism of the pedestrian lighting.
A survey last month revealed 700 people were using the bridge each day between 9am and 5pm.
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