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Wear bridge would be tallest in UK + Stunning new images
This is one of the latest images to be released of the dazzling new bridge earmarked for the Wear.
Views of the landmark crossing and its road network will go on show next week and Wearsiders will be able to make comments and suggestions on the plans.
Work is pressing ahead to develop the competition-winning concept drawn up by architect Stephen Spence, and Sunderland City Council is releasing the designs and illustrations as part of the next stage of the planning process.
Phil Barrett, the council's director of Development and Regeneration, said: "Last year the council carried out a major consultation exercise and people said that having a striking design for a new Wear bridge was very important.
"There's now the opportunity, especially for those in Sunderland who live near to where the bridge would be built, to comment on these plans."
The bridge and its approach roads form the first stage of a major new road link from the A19 into central Sunderland.
The Sunderland Strategic Transport Corridor, as it is known, is intended to cut congestion and boost business links.
It will provide swift road access into the key regeneration sites such as Vaux, which are expected to generate thousands of new jobs.
But supporters of Mr Spence's design say it is vital that Sunderland gets the "iconic" option which would put Wearside firmly on the map and create an internationally recognised symbol of Sunderland.
If it goes ahead, the structure will be the country's tallest bridge and soar high above the city – making it visible for miles around.
Work on the bridge could start as soon as 2012 and be complete as 2014 – though the dates depend on final approvals and successfully gaining planning permission.
Comments made at next week's consultation events will contribute to a "design and access statement" which will form part of a proposed planning application.
It will sit alongside more technical information, such as details on construction works and the impact on the surrounding environment.
The bridge plans will be on show with opportunities to comment at the following times and venues:
Sunderland Civic Centre, Main Reception – Tuesday July 14 to Friday July 17 from 9am – 5pm (until 4pm on Friday);
Central Library and Arts Centre foyer, Fawcett Street – Saturday, 18 July, 10am – 4pm and Monday July 20 from 10am – 7.30pm;
Southwick Library, Beaumont Street, Wednesday July 22, 9.30am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 7.30pm
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Weather for Sunderland
Friday 10 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -3 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: South
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Temperature: 1 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
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