And finally… A fresh coat for Leeds landmark

Centenary Bridge has had a birthday makeover, with the bridge given a fresh look as part of the city’s 400th anniversary celebrations.

Leeds City Council has completed the restoration and repainting of the cable-stayed footbridge linking The Calls with Brewery Wharf across the River Aire.

Well-known to anyone who has made the walk from UKREiiF into the city, the bridge was completed in 1903 and was the first new crossing over the River Aire in more than 100 years.

It is widely credited with helping to open up regeneration of the city’s South Bank.

Standing 18 metres high and spanning 43 metres across the river, the structure originally cost around £600,000 to build.

The refurbishment saw specialist teams use elevated access platforms to repaint the bridge and carry out upgrades aimed at preserving the structure as riverside development continues to bring more residents, workers and visitors to the area.

The restoration forms part of Leeds’ year-long programme celebrating 400 years since the city received its first Royal Charter in 1626.

Cllr Salma Arif, the council’s executive member for economy, said: “It’s wonderful that during this very special year, we’ve been able to bring Centenary Bridge back to its best.

“The project has given us the opportunity to rediscover the story behind a structure which played an early role in sparking the regeneration of the South Bank.”