Final section of city's bridge lifted into place

The final, and largest, section was lifted into place on Monday evening

The final section of a multimillion-pound footbridge has been installed in what leaders said was an "exciting day" for a city.

A 105m (344ft) long steel segment of the New Wear Bridge in Sunderland has been lifted into place, days after it was taken up the River Wear by barge.

The next stage of work on the structure, which will not open until summer 2025, will include the installation of a concrete deck, parapet and lighting.

Once open, Sunderland AFC said it would alleviate pressure on the nearby Wearmouth Bridge on matchdays.

About £31m is being spent on the bridge, commissioned by Sunderland City Council, which will link Keel Square with the Sheepfolds and the Stadium of Light.

In recent months, parts of the bridge have made their way across the North Sea after being manufactured in Ghent, Belgium.

Ian Cussons said VolkerStevin had built other bridges in the region including the Millennium Bridge

Ian Cussons, project leader and operations director at engineering firm VolkerStevin, said the bridge had been "very complex" to build.

He said about 80 workers had to work with steep-sided banks leading to the river and construction sites at both ends of the bridge.

"This is an extremely proud moment for me and the project team, we've a long history of delivering bridges and structures in the region," he said.

"It's iconic and for years to come everybody who is associated with the bridge will be extremely proud."

David Bruce from Sunderland AFC said using the bridge would create a "special ritual"

Sunderland AFC said it expected more than 70% of fans from the other side of the city to travel to the stadium via the bridge.

The club's chief business officer David Bruce said: "It's our version of the Wembley Way where you create that special ritual and tradition for fans.

"It will create an unbelievable visual on match day, when you see those red and white shirts coming en-masse across the water."

The sections travelled by barge up the River Wear

Kevin Johnston, the council's cabinet member for housing, regeneration and business, said it was a "really exciting day for Sunderland".

"The bridge will play central role of the development on both sides of the River Wear as we move forward with the Sunderland Riverside masterplan."

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