Covering 13.7 hectares of parkland and 5.3 hectares of riverfront, the park will be made up of five areas; Southern Gateway, Kingsley Gardens, Galley's Gill, Lambton Riverside, and Wearmouth Riverside.
Situated between the Riverside multi-storey car park and new Eye Hospital, the first phase is Southern Gateway, which will comprise a new park entrance, landscaped spaces, ponds, and social areas designed to increase biodiversity and encourage public use.
With a new park on the horizon, we’ve taken a look at the fascinating history of our existing parks, from those built on reclaimed former colliery sites to a park built in response to the cholera epidemic.
5. Diamond Hall pocket park, Millfield
Diamond Hall pocket park underwent a jazzy makeover in lockdown thanks to local artist Kathryn Robertson. She said: “I’ve really enjoyed the park commission, it’s not my usual style but I loved working with the colours and people using the park have said it’s made a difference. I think bright, colourful artwork can improve an environment and also improve people’s sense of wellbeing – it cheers you up!" Photo: JPI Media
6. Burn Park, Thornhill
Possibly Sunderland's smallest park, Burn Park only takes minutes to walk around but it's got a quaint charm with original cobbled paths and a foot bridge. It was once a larger park with its own games huts and a north side, which was demolished in 1971 to make way for the New Durham Road dual carriageway. Worth popping to nearby Grinder or Paticake Patisserie for a takeaway coffee and cake if you're out and about. Photo: JPI Media
7. Herrington Country Park
Once the site of Herrington Colliery, Herrington Country Park is a prime example of how former industrial land can be given new life. The park has developed into a significant home for wildlife, hosting up to 100 species of birds. It's also hosted many major events for the city, such as Radio 1's Big Weekend. Photo: JPI Media
8. Cliffe Park, Seaburn
Well used for coastal walks, Cliffe Park's most distinguishing feature is its Grade II-listed lighthouse. The structure was originally built in 1856 on Sunderland's South Pier. In 1983 it was dismantled to allow for harbour improvements and moved to the park. Photo: Stu Norton