We're upgrading a key Sunderland cycling route to make it more accessible

Upgrade works are taking place on a 1.5km stretch of the National Cycle Network (Route 7).

The project will transform a stretch of the iconic C2C route, near the A1231 and A19 at Hylton Grange Interchange, west of Sunderland.

Walk Wheel Cycle Trust say the scheme will improve accessibility and make the route safer for pedestrians and cyclists commuting between Sunderland and Washington.

Horse riders are also set to welcome upgrades, with livery stable yards located at either end of the section.

The route has been selected for improvement because it currently suffers from a range of problems, including poor drainage.

Vegetation is also encroaching on the path which has created a narrow-unsealed surface.

These works will widen the track to 2.5-3.5 metres and replace a dusty stone veneer with a recycled rubber and stone bound surface. known as Flexipave - this material is seen as the ideal finish where high numbers of pedestrians, cyclists and equestrians use the same track.

Other measures include the construction of a 40-metre long retaining wall to support the path which is built out over an existing embankment.

Accessible chicanes will be added to replace sub-standard access controls, such as exclusionary gates, stiles and some boulder chicanes. This will allow all users, from mobility scooters to horses, through but will regulate speed, making this section safer.

The route is well used by horse riders and touring cyclists completing the C2C challenge route every year.

Washington Wetlands Centre lies to the west, along with major employment sites around Pattinson Road and Mandarin Way.

To the north sits Nissan, with business parks and housing situated along Wessington Way to the east.

Modelling has predicted this project will deliver benefits of £4.13 for every pound spent. This will boost active travel in the region, bringing economic and environmental benefits along with improved health and wellbeing outcomes.

It’s been made possible thanks to a grant from National Highways, and is expected to cost £700,000 to complete. Construction is expected to run until March 2026, and a diversion has been set up while this takes place.

Commenting on the upgrades Carole Patrick, National Cycle Network Director at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust said: “We’re really excited to be working with National Highways to deliver these improvements to the C2C route on the National Cycle Network.

“We will improve the drainage, widen the path and make the route accessible for many more people. This upgrade means more people will be able to access nature, exercise and enjoy independent and sustainable travel along a pleasant, traffic-free path. It’s a fantastic scheme.”

Alistair Ryder, National Highways’ Team Leader – Active Travel and Travel Demand Management said: “It’s fantastic news that construction work is now starting on the C2C route. It will provide a safe, direct, off-road route for cyclists and pedestrians in a lovely, scenic setting.

“We are committed to encouraging safe, sustainable and healthy active travel and are delighted that we have been able to support this excellent scheme which will help improve the experiences of people looking for alternative travel away from the roads network.”

Formerly known as Sustrans, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust are custodians of the National Cycle Network, which passes within one mile of around half of the UK population. Now in its 30th year, the Network stretches 12,000 miles across the UK with a target of 1,000 new and improved miles by the end of 2030.

Visit www.walkwheelcycletrust.org.uk to find out more about the work they do in communities across the UK.