Ambitious plans to revamp facilities at Newport’s iconic Transporter Bridge are dependent on a successful bid for Heritage Lottery Funding (HLF).

Newport City Council is awaiting the decision on a £10 million bid to HLF so it can carry out repairs, restore the gondola and make improvements to the site.

An artist’s impression of how a new visitor centre could look has been released by the council.

The Bridge, which can be seen from many points across the city with its huge metal structure and the gondola used to carry vehicles across the River Usk is now open for the tourist season.

The council bid for funding is up against projects from across the UK – however there is no guarantee of success.

The proposed application has to go through two stages, this initial bid is the first phase and the council has to identify a potential £1.25 million in the council’s capital programme for the matched funding requirement should the bid be successful and reach stage two.

The council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, Councillor Debbie Harvey, is hoping there will be good news from the HLF in the coming weeks.

“Our popular and iconic Transporter Bridge attracts visitors from around the world and we are very grateful to all our volunteers and the Friends of Newport Transporter Bridge for all their support over the years.

“We know there is a lot of local support backing the bid from the Heritage Lottery Fund and know local businesses and residents support us.

“The artist’s impression, which looks at the new visitor centre, gives a glimpse into the future of the changes that could take place to enhance the visitor experience.

“Fingers crossed we will have some good news soon,” said Councillor Harvey.