A BRIDGE builder has reported wider losses – but says management changes and a stronger order book are improving its fortunes.

Cleveland Bridge saw its deficit grow and turnover dip as it fought challenges in the construction sector.

According to latest accounts, annual losses increased from £2.9m to £7m, with turnover falling from £35.3m to £33.4m.

However, the Darlington-based firm, which is making crossings for jungle and rural areas in Sri Lanka, says new contracts are giving it fresh impetus.

Bosses say the business has secured a number of new UK projects and is benefitting from better market conditions, adding they expect their decision to freshen up its engineering and commercial divisions will help turnover reach around £55m.

The Northern Echo last week revealed Cleveland Bridge was working on hundreds of crossings for Sri Lanka and making structures for the widening of the A1 road, between Leeming and Barton, North Yorkshire.

Reviewing its progress over the last 12 months, a spokesman: “2014 was a testing year.

“The Sri Lanka phase two contract started later than anticipated and this led to a reduction in turnover and margin.

“While the majority of other contracts performed well, complex issues on one major contract had a harsh effect on profitability.

“However, a number of new UK projects have been secured and rebuilding of the order pipeline is taking shape, reflecting general market recovery in the UK construction sector.

“Turnover is forecast to be in the order of £55m, recognising growth in both UK and international sales.”

Cleveland Bridge’s Sri Lankan venture will provide isolated communities with better access to education, healthcare and jobs by replacing rope and bamboo bridges, which are often washed away in the rainy season.

The Northern Echo understands fabrication and shipping are due to be completed by 2016, with the last bridges expected to be installed by early 2018.

On the A1, the company, which employs more than 220 people, is also is helping widen Brompton North Bridge, Brompton South Bridge and Agricola Bridge, near Catterick, North Yorkshire.

It is also installing new crossings on the Sowber Hill and Kneeton Hall bridges, and the Low Street, Kneeton Lane and Fort Overbridge crossings.

Cleveland Bridge’s history dates back 138 years, and since its inception it has built some of the world’s most iconic structures.

The group was involved in building the Sydney Harbour Bridge, in Australia, and Victoria Falls Bridge, which spans the River Zambesi, in Southern Africa.

In 1911, the group designed Middlesbrough’s Transporter Bridge, and further examples of its North-East work include the Infinity and Surtees bridges, in Stockton, and the Tyne Bridge in Newcastle.