A MAJOR improvement scheme for Middlesbrough's iconic Transporter Bridge moved a step closer to securing cash from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

Development funding of £111,500 was awarded to help progress the plans towards a full bid for £2.03 million which will be used to create major improvements to the historic bridge which celebrates its centenary in 2011.

The HLF first-round pass means that more detailed plans need to be submitted before the full grant can be awarded.

The Grade II listed bridge, one of only a handful of working examples in the world, links Middlesbrough and Port Clarence across the River Tees.

The project will feature improvements to the bridge, with visitors not only enjoying the panoramic view but also gaining a greater understanding of its history and the surrounding industrial heartland. Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for transport, said: "The Transporter Bridge is an iconic symbol for the region and a great tourist attraction for the town, so the confirmation that were a step closer to major funding is fantastic news.

"If we are successful in winning the full £2.03 million, the Transporter will get a major makeover in time for its centenary year."

In recent years the Transporter has become a centre for extreme sports with regular events involving 1,500 visitors in bungee jumping, zip lining and abseiling from the structure.

Ivor Crowther, head of HLF North-East, said: "The bridge is an iconic structure, both defining the surrounding industrial heartland and acting as a major tourist attraction."