Northern Spire, Sunderland

This project comprised the design and construction of a new three-span, cable stayed bridge over the River Wear in Sunderland. Works included utility diversions, ground works and demolition works on-site.

£72M
Contract Value
36 Months
Project Duration

Client
Sunderland City Council

The Project

The three-span cable-stayed bridge construction comprised piled foundations, reinforced concrete sub-structure, a steel concrete composite bridge deck with precast concrete decking and steel A frame pylon.

The two main cable-stayed spans are 148m each with a third fixed span of 40m on the northern side. In order to construct the permanent works, temporary works e.g. a cofferdam, was utilised to aid construction, to reduce risks and impact of the works, and to reduce the works programme.

In addition to the construction of a new river bridge the project included the construction of 2.8km of new carriageway and is forecast to carry 27,000 vehicles per day. Additional highway works included: 750m of new single lane carriageway, new traffic signals, road realignments, a Metro line crossing and a new access with cofferdam piling duties and the installation of the bridge decking.

Services & Expertise

This project was the first bridge to be built over the River Wear in 40 years. Works included:

  • Design and construction of a dual carriageway bridge spanning the River Wear.
  • Design and construction of 2.8km of new road carriageway.
  • Associated approach roads and junctions.
  • Additional highway works included 750m of new single lane carriageway side roads, new traffic signals.
  • Realignment of existing highway.
  • A line crossing for the local Metro, a rapid transit light-rail system.