The Gateshead Millennium Bridge can be lit up in any colour you choose for a fee of £240 plus VAT, with discounted rates available for charities and voluntary groups. The booking service allows individuals and organisations to personalise the landmark for weddings, business promotions, major events or to remember a loved one.
The option comes to light after the bridge recently made headlines when Reform UK Gateshead, which gained leadership of Gateshead Council in May 2026, announced it will not light the landmark red on October 16 in support of anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card. Gateshead has become the second local council to withdraw support for the charity, stating that the charity's activities are socio-political and therefore support would be outside the council's policy of treating all residents as equals.
How the lighting service works
Gateshead Council explains on its website that the bridge's sophisticated lighting system allows you to personalise it in your colours. The service is available for business, personal, weddings and events. The lights are operated by sensors and only turn on when it gets dark enough for them to be clearly visible.
The council says you can share your memory on social media channels and engage your social audience or simply share with your family and friends. In addition, you can hire Baltic Square, described as an exclusive event space right next to the bridge, suitable for marquees, tipis and most event infrastructure.
Fees and charity discounts
The standard lighting cost is £240 plus VAT. Charities and voluntary sector groups are eligible for discounted rates in two payment bands:
- Band A – Registered Charity with less than £100k turnover in the last financial year – £60 + VAT
- Band B – Registered Charity with £100k–£500k turnover in the last financial year – £120 + VAT
How to make a request
To book, you must fill in a form providing details such as your or your organisation's name, requested date of lighting, requested colour and reason for request. If the request is on behalf of a third party, the council must be given full details.
The council requests that all press releases and images used as part of the event be cleared through the Gateshead Council Communications Team. It also notes that circumstances may arise which mean it is not possible to light the bridge as you wish, and while the council cannot accept liability for any loss or disappointment, a full refund will be issued.
