Northern Spire Bridge

The Northern Spire Bridge is a cable-stayed road bridge spanning the River Wear in Sunderland with a distinctive A-frame pylon structure. The construction combines steel and reinforced concrete to provide two traffic lanes in each direction plus separate paths for walking and cycling.

The bridge opened in 2018 as a major infrastructure milestone for Sunderland. It marked a turning point in how the city connected its communities across the Wear.

The structure has become a defining landmark for the communities on either side, reshaping how locals perceive their neighborhoods. Residents and visitors alike notice the striking pylon that now anchors the city's waterfront landscape.

The bridge is accessible by foot, bicycle, or car, with dedicated spaces for each mode of transport across the span. Visitors should know that weather conditions can affect comfort on the crossing, especially when wind is strong off the water.

The pylon towers significantly higher than Big Ben's clock tower, making it a striking visual anchor for the city. Its height was deliberately chosen to create a contemporary landmark that commands attention from multiple vantage points around Sunderland.

Location: Sunderland

Official opening: August 28, 2018

Height: 105 m

Length: 336 m

Longest Span: 240 m

Width: 25 m

Made from material: steel, reinforced concrete

Website: https://sunderland.gov.uk/article/14608/Northern-Spire

GPS coordinates: 54.91670,-1.42440

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:44