The official opening date for the bridge has not yet been announced, but it will be open in time for a fan parade to mark the opening match of the Women's Rugby World Cup which takes place on August 22.placeholder image
The official opening date for the bridge has not yet been announced, but it will be open in time for a fan parade to mark the opening match of the Women's Rugby World Cup which takes place on August 22. | Sunderland Echo

Latest footage of Keel Crossing as Sunderland's new landmark bridge nears completion

By Katy Wheeler

Lifestyle Editor

Published 19th Jun 2025, 10:14 GMT
Updated 19th Jun 2025, 21:44 GMT

Two years in the making, and many more in the planning, Sunderland’s new River Wear crossing is nearing completion.

Officially named as Keel Crossing following a public vote from a shortlist of three, here’s the latest pictures as the team at VolkerStevin work towards an official opening in the coming weeks.

For a look around Keel Crossing’s neighbours, Maker & Faber, see here.

The Keel Crossing is being built by VolkerStevin on behalf of Sunderland City Council and is a central pillar in the development of Riverside Sunderland, one of the UK’s most ambitious urban regeneration projects. Work began on clearing the land for the bridge in early 2023.

5. Two years in the making

The Keel Crossing is being built by VolkerStevin on behalf of Sunderland City Council and is a central pillar in the development of Riverside Sunderland, one of the UK’s most ambitious urban regeneration projects. Work began on clearing the land for the bridge in early 2023. | Sunderland Echo

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The footbridge is one of several high-profile developments currently under construction at Riverside Sunderland, alongside the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), Maker & Faber, Culture House, the new Eye Hospital and Vaux Housing.

6. Looking to the future

The footbridge is one of several high-profile developments currently under construction at Riverside Sunderland, alongside the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), Maker & Faber, Culture House, the new Eye Hospital and Vaux Housing. | Sunderland Echo

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