Work to begin on footbridge across theWear

ANEW footbridge in Sunderland which will offer a direct route to the Stadium of Light could begin to be constructed within weeks.

Final plans for a high-level pedestrian and cycle bridge crossing the Wear, continuing the Keel Line from The Beam to the Sheepfolds, are set to be green-lit, with proposals set to be approved at a meeting this week.

Volker Stevin - the preferred supplier - is expected to begin work within weeks.

The bridge will improve connectivity between the city centre and the Stadium of Light, enhancing the visitor experience on matchdays and for large concerts and events such as Expo Sunderland. It will also help to unlock development in the Sheepfolds neighbourhood, where a community of 500 high-quality sustainable new homes will enhance the city centre housing offer.

Plans for the bridge were originally unveiled in 2019, with outline planning consent granted in 2021, and the council has been developing proposals with a team of architects and engineers to finalise the design of an elegant, contemporary bridge that will frame the Wearmouth Bridge and complement the changing cityscape at Riverside Sunderland

Architectural lighting will illuminate the exterior of the bridge and smart features such as augmented and virtual reality will create an interactive public space and an educational and tourist attraction.

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “We’re delighted to be moving through the final phase of scoping and design, and ready to commence works on a bridge that is a key component of our plans for Riverside Sunderland.

“The bridge is a key connector as we advance plans both sides of the river, so I am very much looking forward to seeing Volker Stevin break ground in a matter of weeks, with a view to the bridge opening in 2025.”

The project will also include the delivery of critical infrastructure that will support the roll out of the city’s high-speed fibre, 5G wifi, and low carbon energy networks and will see the preservation and enhancement of the riverside embankments and public realm within Riverside Park.

The new crossing will boast vistas across the river and out to sea, and will provide a direct route over to the Stadium of Light and Beacon of Light, as well as the regenerated Grade II Stables which is currently being transformed into a leisure hub - and the new British Esports Performance Campus, both of which will open later this year.

Cllr Miller added: “This bridge will be a real centrepiece, with a beautiful simplicity that allows for unspoilt views over the river and to the transforming landscape on both sides of it.”

The crossing was warmly welcomed by Sunderland AFC players past and present when plans were revealed and the bridge will significantly improve the accessibility of the stadium on matchdays.

The crossing is just one of a number of major developments revealed in the Riverside Sunderland Masterplan.