Keel Crossing opens to kick off Women's Rugby World Cup

A new pedestrian footbridge has opened in Sunderland ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, linking the city centre with Sheepfolds and the Stadium of Light.

Keel Crossing welcomed city leaders, club officials from Sunderland AFC, TV architect George Clarke and World Rugby representative Rebecca Leach as part of a test event ahead of England’s match against the USA. 

Sunderland musician Marty Longstaff, from the Lake Poets, performed live, while representatives from construction partners Esh and VolkerStevin oversaw the ceremonial crossing, marked by a red and white smoke display.

The temporary opening will allow fans to safely access the stadium for this evening’s (August 22) match, which is expected to attract around 40,000 spectators. 

Following the game, final cosmetic works will then continue before the crossing is officially opened for daily use.

TV architect George Clarke, who is a director of the Foundation of Light, Sunderland AFC’s official charity, said: “Wow. As someone from the city, it was an incredible honour to be among the first to walk over the Keel Crossing and to see the transforming cityscape from a totally new vantage point. 

“This is such an iconic new landmark, and I can’t wait to see the final improvements complete and to be able to see this used week after week by Sunderland AFC’s incredible fan base.”

David Bruce, chief business officer at Sunderland AFC, said the opening of the crossing for the WRWC gave a glimpse of what is to come on match days.

He added: “The crossing will be a gamechanger for fans making their way to and from the stadium, as we’re about to see for the Rugby World Cup. 

“With matches, concerts and events all taking place at the Stadium of Light, this is an important piece of infrastructure for the city and the club.”

Rebecca Leach, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 head of tournament, venue and city operations, added: “It’s wonderful to see that all the stops have been pulled out to open this bridge for the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. 

“This is a tremendous stadium and city from which to host such a prestigious match, showcasing Sunderland on a global stage.”

Part of the Riverside Sunderland regeneration, Keel Crossing spans 250 metres and stands 30 metres above the River Wear, connecting Sheepfolds and northern communities to the city centre. 

The ten-metre-wide bridge complements Sunderland’s wider regeneration plans, offering improved access to new housing, employment spaces and leisure facilities, while sitting alongside the historic Wearmouth Bridge, which was built in 1927.

Will Davies, project manager at VolkerStevin, said: “We’re really proud to be supporting Sunderland City Council in the delivery of this key piece of infrastructure, connecting the north and south sides of the River Wear. 

“The team has been committed to facilitating today’s temporary opening and we’re excited to see it being used for such a prestigious event.

“We’ll be back on-site next week, to ensure the final work is completed ahead of its opening for day-to-day use later in 2025.”

Councillor Michael Mordey, leader of Sunderland City Council, added: “What a moment, to see the Keel Crossing in use for the first time on such a special day for the city, as we play host to an internationally significant sporting event in Sunderland.

“This crossing is so significant – it demonstrates our absolute commitment to knitting the Sheepfolds neighbourhood and the stadium into the heart of our city centre and ensuring that we create a world-class experience for people living, working and playing in Riverside Sunderland.”

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