SAFC fans to celebrate 30 years of city status

Supporters saw a stunning video ahead of the game against Cardiff City on Saturday (November 4), played on the digital screens at both ends of the ground.

Marking the city’s incredible journey of transformation since 1992, the video highlights the highs and lows as Sunderland has evolved from a post-industrial town into a vibrant, dynamic, healthy smart city that is fit for the future.

Steve Davison, chief operating officer at Sunderland AFC, said: “We’re a proud supporter of Sunderland as a city. The journey it is on is incredible to be part of, and we are pleased to be helping to play a part in celebrating what has been achieved over the last 30 years, as well as looking forward the exciting future that lies ahead.”

Sunderland’s transformation over the last 30 years has been dramatic, changing from a town struggling from the decline of heavy industry into a city of opportunity, leveraging technology, advanced manufacturing, world-class contact centres and creative hubs to create more and better opportunities for residents.

A programme of investment over the last few years is also transforming the heart of the city. From the development of a new urban quarter – Riverside Sunderland – to the plans to create new leisure facilities including Culture House and Sheepfolds. Thousands of jobs are also being created with the likes of Nissan, Ocado and Just Eat announcing opportunities for residents.

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunderland is a city that is proud of its past and excited for its future, and we’re delighted to celebrate 30 years of city status with residents and share this fantastic video – which charts our transformative journey since 1992 - with fans of our beloved football club.

“We have seen a lot of change take place over the past 30 years, and even more so in the last few years, as investment spills into the city centre and our skyline transforms to make Sunderland a destination that will attract more people to live, work and play.

“The scale of investment and development underway has not been seen in generations, and the wider vision for our city will change the lives of the wonderful people who live in Sunderland, providing new job opportunities and new leisure spaces to enjoy. I’m confident this is just the start of an exciting new chapter.”

For more about Sunderland’s 30 years as a city, visit: https://www.mysunderland.co.uk/30years