Work to start on seafront two-way cycle route

Sunderland City Council has received further funding from Active Travel England to allow construction of a new dedicated two-way cycle track along the A183 Whitburn Road.

The project will use existing space to separate pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, while maintaining the two-way flow of traffic along the seafront.

Separating cyclists and pedestrians and installing a number of new pedestrian crossings will enable more people to safely access key recreational hotspots like Roker Park and Cliff Park and help more visitors enjoy the city's natural assets like Roker and Seaburn beaches.

The proposals are in line with the city council's commitment to create a dynamic, healthy, and vibrant city, promoting the use of alternative, sustainable modes of transport and healthy living.

Encouraging cycling instead of driving is another step towards cutting Sunderland's carbon emissions, as the council and partners are committed to making the city carbon neutral by 2040.

Work is scheduled to commence on Monday 9 January 2023, with traffic Management arrangements to be put in place to help minimise disruption.

Works will be split into two phases:

Phase 1 will start in January and work will take place from the Tram Shelter to Roker Ravine Bridge. Work will then stop while the city hosts the World Triathlon Championship Series at the end of July 2023.

Phase 2 of the works will be programmed in shortly after the summer holidays to help reduce congestion and disruption during the busy summer period.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Dynamic City, said: "Cycling is a fantastic, sustainable and healthy way to get around and we want to make it as easy as possible for people to travel around Sunderland by bike. As we continue to invest in the city, upgrading and improving the cycling route and crossings along Whitburn Road will not only improve safety, but also encourage more people to visit the seafront, and promote cycling for both transport and leisure."

All works are anticipated to be complete by Spring 2024.