Wearmouth Bridge, Sunderland

AB Heritage’s Involvement in the New Wear Footbridge Project

AB Heritage Limited was tasked by Atkins to create a Heritage Statement for the New Wear Footbridge, part of Sunderland’s Riverside Regeneration Scheme. This footbridge will span the River Wear, linking the Vaux/Galleys Gill development on the south bank to the Sheepfolds area on the north bank. Completed in December 2020, AB Heritage’s report examined the potential impacts on nearby heritage assets, including the Grade II listed Wearmouth Bridge, Monkwearmouth Railway Bridge, and the former N.E.R. Stables.

Understanding the Heritage

The primary goal was to assess how the new footbridge might affect the above-ground heritage. AB Heritage’s team delved into historical records, conducted site visits, and consulted with local authorities. Their research was thorough, even adapting to the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic by relying heavily on online resources.

Key Heritage Assets

1. Wearmouth Bridge
   • Architectural and Historical Significance: This iconic bridge, built in 1929 and incorporating elements from an 18th-century design by Robert Stephenson, is a celebrated feat of engineering by Mott, Hay & Anderson. It’s a symbol of Sunderland’s industrial past.
   • Setting: The bridge spans the River Wear, a quieter landscape now compared to its bustling industrial heyday.
2. Monkwearmouth Railway Bridge
   • Architectural and Historical Significance: Constructed in 1879 by Thomas Harrison, this bridge was the largest hog-back iron girder bridge of its time and now serves as a Tyne and Wear Metro line. It reflects the industrial might of the North Eastern Railway.
   • Setting: Like the Wearmouth Bridge, it stands as a proud testament to the city’s industrial history along the River Wear.
3. Former N.E.R. Stables
   • Architectural and Historical Significance: Built in the 1880s by William Bell, these stables are a rare surviving example of large industrial stables. Despite some deterioration, they maintain significant architectural charm.
   • Setting: Currently, the stables are surrounded by a less inspiring industrial estate, which doesn’t do much to highlight their historical value.

Projected Impacts and Benefits

The new footbridge is set to bring several positive changes:

1. For the Wearmouth and Monkwearmouth Railway Bridges: The footbridge will offer fresh viewpoints of these historic structures, enhancing public appreciation and understanding. The impact is seen as moderately beneficial.
2. For the Former N.E.R. Stables: Improving the area around the north abutment and extending the Keel Line past the stables will boost public awareness of their historical significance. This too is considered a moderately beneficial impact.

Recommendations and Conclusion

AB Heritage recommends careful design of the final landscaping and parapet treatments to ensure the new footbridge complements the existing heritage assets. They suggest a further impact assessment once these design elements are finalized.

In summary, AB Heritage’s involvement in the New Wear Footbridge project has been pivotal in ensuring that Sunderland’s rich industrial heritage is both preserved and celebrated. The new footbridge is not just a means of crossing the river but a new lens through which to view and appreciate the city’s historic treasures.

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