NEWPORT'S most famous landmark looks set to be repaired and re-opened much sooner than expected.

As we exclusively revealed, the Transporter Bridge was closed last month after major faults were found.

It was feared the essential repairs, costing more than £150,000, would not be completed until the second half of this year.

However, yesterday it was announced funds had been found in this year's budget and it is hoped work will begin as soon as March.

Councillor Ken Critchley, the cabinet member for engineering and transport, broke the news at yesterday's council meeting.

"It does engender a great deal of feeling among the population. Support for the Transporter Bridge is renowned and worldwide."

Councillor Critchley said he was pleased to announce they could now engage specialist contractors to do the repairs.

Council leader Bob Bright said: "The bridge is very dear to us. It is Newport's identity and we immediately put out heads together to find the funds.

"We have the funds and we will put the bridge in working order as quickly as possible."

Councillor David Hando, who had asked about the landmark, said: "I very much welcome the news."

Anne Gatehouse, chairman of the Friends of Newport Transporter Bridge, was "over the moon" at the announcement.

"I'm really, really pleased. We were very concerned."

She understood it had to be closed for safety reasons but was worried about the disappointment faced by visitors.

Last year the council spent £180,000 refurbishing the bridge ahead of its centenary.

Regular monitoring discovered a number of major faults with riveting and bolting on the boom that carries the cradle.

It is hoped the repair work can be completed by the summer.