City's transformation continues apace

One of the UK's most ambitious urban regeneration projects has moved into its next stage.

Sunderland City Council has today [17 Oct] given the green light for a contractor to be appointed to deliver a multi-million-pound package of infrastructure improvements to advance the next phase of its Riverside Sunderland development.

Comprising a new pedestrian footbridge, road and path improvements, cycle routes and much improved public realm, the package of improvements will enable further development of the Sheepfolds area surrounding the Stadium of Light and new leisure hub, Sheepfolds Stables, which opened its doors earlier this year.

Several major developments have already commenced in the Sheepfolds area, including the New Wear Footbridge, Housing Innovation Construction Skills Academy (HICSA) and National Esports Arena. And a programme of demolition is already unlocking future residential development land, with the procurement of a residential developer underway and an appointment due to be made early next year.

Over £500million has already been invested by Sunderland City Council and its partners as part of the Riverside Sunderland masterplan and city chiefs are hopeful this next phase of improvements will unlock further investment as the transformation of the brownfield city centre site - spanning both sides of the River Wear - continues apace.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for business, housing and regeneration, said: "Sheepfolds is at the beating heart of the Riverside Sunderland masterplan, so we are delighted that councillors of all persuasions have today unanimously backed our plans to push on with its redevelopment.

"By moving swiftly to appoint a contractor, we are giving ourselves the best possible chance to ensure that, by the time the Women's Rugby World Cup arrives on Wearside next summer, residents and visitors alike will benefit from significantly improved pedestrian flow, making match days, concerts, and events a lot more enjoyable.  

"Once complete, the footbridge could really become our own Wembley Way, creating a unique experience for fans visiting the stadium. It will really be a sight to behold.

"Revitalised public spaces and improved roads will also play a key role in helping us encourage prospective investors and developers, residents and businesses to relocate to Riverside Sunderland, as we continue to push on with the wider redevelopment of the historic site."

Sunderland City Council issued an invitation to tender for the works on 20 September and responses are due to be returned by 30 October, with a planned contract award date of 11 November.

Design work commenced in April and the detailed design of the project is now complete, meaning ground can be broken as soon as contracts have been exchanged.

Cllr Johnston added: "One of the reasons we have been successful in attracting so many investors to the city in recent years is the entrepreneurial nature of the council. We have been agile and responsive, and have started the firing gun on regeneration by making the right strategic investments at the right time, to attract private sector support for our projects.

"Over recent years, we have secured public and private investment worth over £500 million and with new housing, workspace and leisure facilities set to rise from the ground over the coming months and years, Riverside Sunderland is a recognised exemplar of urban regeneration, and long may it continue."

For more information on Riverside Sunderland, visit: https://www.riversidesunderland.com/