The team will explore options for the Tees Transporter Bridge, one of the great symbols of Middlesbrough's industrial heritage, with a focus on how it will be central to the area's culture, education and tourism.
The blue bridge - which opened in 1911 - has been out of action for over 18 months over safety concerns and the need for major repairs.
In December, Middlesbrough Council's Executive agreed to spend more than £650,000 on urgent repair works, and following strong public opinion received since then, leaders across Middlesbrough and Stockton-on-Tees have decided to look to restore the bridge back to being fully operational, subject to securing sufficient funding.
The Independent Transporter Taskforce has recently been established, bringing together Middlesbrough Council members and officers, heritage experts and representatives of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and Tees Valley Combined Authority.
A public consultation will be launched shortly to gather people's ideas for the cultural, leisure, education and heritage options for the future of the bridge which the Transporter Taskforce will then review and make recommendations reflecting public opinion to Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston.
The Transporter Taskforce will also explore viable funding options that can be used to secure the longevity of the bridge as one of the Tees Valley's most prominent and treasured landmarks.
Cllr Mieka Smiles, Middlesbrough Council's Executive Member for Communities and Education and Chair of the Transporter Taskforce, said: "The Transporter is one of the great icons of the north east and a real symbol of Teesside's rich heritage.
"The feedback we've had from the public has left us in no doubt they'd like us to keep the bridge open providing we can find the funds.
"We're fully committed maintaining the Transporter as a key destination for culture, leisure and tourism, and we'll be seeking more input from local people before making any final decision.
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