The north and south piers at the Port of Tyne remain closed due to repeated acts of vandalism, with North Pier forced to shut just days after reopening following a significant incident.
Damage to North Pier
Eight specialist glass blocks in the pavement at the lighthouse end of the structure were smashed, leaving broken glass across the area and exposing sensitive equipment that supports the lighthouse's navigation systems. Further inspections subsequently identified damage across all six pavement light installations near the lighthouse, with cracks and breakages affecting multiple glass blocks.
The damaged area presents a risk to visitors and has left important infrastructure vulnerable to further damage and the elements. Until the area can be fully assessed, repaired and made safe, public access cannot resume.
Historic structures and repair costs
Both North Pier and South Pier are listed structures, meaning repairs must be carried out using appropriate materials and methods that preserve their historic character while meeting modern safety and engineering standards. This often requires specialist materials, contractors and inspections, making repairs more complex than they might be on a modern structure.
The current estimate for repairs to the damaged pavement lights is around £20,000, although the final cost will depend on the extent of repairs required across all affected areas.
South Pier security gates vandalised
The South Pier also remains closed after security gates were installed. The gates were vandalised on the day they were installed and have subsequently been damaged further to the point where they can no longer provide the level of security required.
The Port has reported recent incidents to Northumbria Police.
