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Wear Footbridge

The centrepiece of the Riverside Sunderland development, one of the UK's largest urban regeneration projects, the Wear Footbridge is earmarked for a Summer 2025 opening.

This essential element of the Riverside Sunderland regeneration scheme will provide direct connectivity between the city centre and the north side of the river, home to Sheepfolds Stables, as well as Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light and the planned British Esports Association's UK Campus.

The new Wear Footbridge will be accessible to pedestrians and cyclists crossing the River Wear from entrance points at The Beam, next to City Hall, and the Stables, close to St Peter's Metro Station.

The bridge is one of several high-profile developments currently under construction at Riverside Sunderland, alongside the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), Maker & Faber, Culture House, the new Eye Hospital and Vaux Housing. Together, the developments will transform the face of the city centre, bringing new jobs, opportunities and places to enjoy for residents.

The Wear Footbridge is expected to be used by thousands of people on a weekly basis, and also provide significant economic benefits to businesses located within the immediate vicinity.

Help us name the new Wear Footbridge

Sunderland residents are being invited to make history by naming the new city landmark.

Just as our residents chose the name for the Northern Spire, we're inviting you to shape the identity of our iconic new Wear Footbridge.

This landmark, set to open summer 2025, will connect the north and south sides of our city centre, becoming a vital part of the Riverside Sunderland regeneration. We want the thousands of people who will cross this bridge every week to feel a true sense of ownership. That's why we're asking you to send us your suggestions to help us choose a name that reflects the true spirit of Sunderland.

Submit your suggestion to help name the Wear Footbridge below by 5pm, Monday 21 April 2025 .

RiversideSunderlandFootbridgeName@sunderland.gov.uk