Scaffolding removed from North Bridge

The project to refurbish North Bridge is expected to be complete by summer 2026, and in another step towards completion the scaffolding on the western side has been removed to reveal vibrant new paintwork.

The bridge which is planned to carry the north-south tram extension was built in the 19th century as the first road link between the Old and New Towns.

The council decided in March 2018 to refurbish the structure for the first time since 1933. The Category A structure is located in the World Heritage Site and is considered an outstanding example of the architecture of its time.

There has been an enormous work programme carried out on the structure with its three spans, each 53 metres wide. There is now new lighting, a new waterproof membrane on the deck, improved pavements and drainage as well as repairs to the concrete deck.

All of the structural steelwork has been grit blasted, repaiered and repainted while all utility pipes and ducts have been checked, and removed if redundant.

The bridge is slowly being revealed again after the years of work with its vibrant colours, although the project was to be completed in November 2025, and the original estimate of £22 million has now risen to at least £85 million.

The southwest facade of Edinburgh’s North Bridge is visible again after refurbishment. 10/10/2025 PHOTO Alan Simpson