REPAIRS to Newport Transporter Bridge's motor house which began in 2006 took longer than expected because of several factors, a council committee heard.

Extensive corrosion and a lack of replacement parts were two reasons cited for slow progress. Bad weather and a breakdown of communication with heritage bosses at CADW were also given.

The scrutiny committee for economic development and transport listened to reasons why repairs took so long.

Work was supposed to be complete in time for the bridge's centenary celebrations in September 2006, but problems including meetings with conservation architects and being handed the green light from CADW delayed work beginning.

Repairs eventually began in August 2006 with December 1 the target end date.

But works were suspended and scaffolds taken down during the celebrations, and the contractors formally requested extending work until December 22 that year.

When 'opening up' works took place in late November workers found extensive corrosion to steel sections and permission had to be sought from CADW to carry out remedial works.

Many of the parts that made up the construction when the bridge went up in 1906 were no longer available and contractors had problems getting replacements in.

The meeting heard how permission wasn't given from CADW until January 22. And a further time extension was applied for because of bad weather, the Christmas shutdown and a lack of contact with CADW.

Upon inspection by conservation architects a new extension of May 22 was given and works were eventually complete on May 8, 2007.

Engineering officers told councillors CADW had been slow in approving requests to go ahead with works.

Councillor Bob Bright told the committee that if this were the case: "The council should send a letter in the strongest possible terms stating our position that this is just not good enough."

  • Newport Transporter Bridge was closed in December after major faults were discovered. It was then estimated it would cost £150,000 for repairs to riveting and bolting on the crane.

But earlier this year it was revealed that the costs had risen and, together with other works now believed to be necessary, the total bill could be more than £2 million.

Council leaders have said they are committed to retaining the bridge and are exploring ways to fund the repairs.