Contractor VolkerStevin has cleared the ground on both sides of the River Wear to enable work to get under way on the new high-level Wear Footbridge.
The bridge is designed to improve connectivity between the city centre and Sunderland Association Football Club’s Stadium of Light.
Volker Stevin was appointed in 2021 (link opens in new tab). The design team is made up of Arup, specialist bridge architect Knight Architects and local landscape architect Colour (link opens in new tab).
Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “I think I speak for everyone connected with the city when I say how fantastic it is to see work finally get under way on this landmark project.
“The construction of the new footbridge will literally and figuratively bridge the gap between the city centre and the Sheepfolds, expanding its footprint and paving the way for more new homes, workspaces and amenities.
“Working alongside VolkerStevin on the project, it will also create jobs and opportunities for people and businesses in the area, with numerous local contractors procured to deliver it, bringing major benefits long before it’s complete.”
Ian Cussons, operations director at VolkerStevin, said: “We are delighted to get started on site and to be working collaboratively with Sunderland City Council, to deliver this significant infrastructure project for the city and community. We have a great team in place who are pleased to be involved in the contribution to the economic growth of the city.”
