Plans for new new footbridge across the River Wear up for initial go-ahead next week

Work on plans for a new footbridge across the Wear could start next week.
An artist's impression of the plan.An artist's impression of the plan.
An artist's impression of the plan.

And fans could be using the new crossing as soon as 2023 – assuming it can get the thumbs up from government.

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Graeme Miller, the leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “We’ve had some fantastic expressions of support for this crossing, which will boost connectivity between the north and south of the river, something that is key as we look to develop the whole Riverside Sunderland site into a vibrant place to live, work and play.

“By moving to the next stage, and seeking permission from the Government, we can ensure that we are on track to deliver this important piece of infrastructure for the city by 2023.”

Plans for the bridge were first set out last year (2019) alongside a host of other proposals including:

A £9 million multi-storey car park at the former Vaux Brewery site; A £7.5 million retail development at Crowtree Square; The refurbishment of Jacky Whites Market.

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Initial proposals for the crossing are due to go before the city council’s ruling cabinet next week (Tuesday, November 17) and, if agreed, will then be passed on to the Government for approval.

Once ministers give the project the green light, work will be able start on formal planning permission – the final hurdle before construction can begin.

And city bosses hope their previous experience of building the Northern Spire Bridge will stand them in good stead and smooth the process through Whitehall, especially as the new bridge is expected to be roughly the same height as the existing Wearmouth Bridge and will not reduce clearance needed for river traffic.

Cllr Miller added: “It was a similar process with the Northern Spire as legal permissions for bridges over navigable waters go beyond standard planning procedures.

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“The new bridge permissions are further key decisions for Riverside Sunderland and our City Plan for a more dynamic, healthy and vibrant Sunderland.”

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