The department has confirmed it would contribute funding. The funding was submitted in September after the British government said that up to US$980 million was being made available for local authority projects that can help economic growth and provide jobs.

As part of its submission, the council outlined how it could deliver measurable public value and a return on investment at a ratio of £4 for every £1 invested.

Sunderland City Council leader Paul Watson said: "The investment in a strategic infrastructure scheme will open up regeneration sites along the River Wear and bring forward investment to Sunderland. “ He added that there has been talk for a long time that Sunderland has needed a major new road crossing over the River Wear.