Road upgrade to drive IAMP growth

A transport upgrade has been completed to support investment and job creation at a North East business park.

Esh Construction has completed the A1290 dualling works in Sunderland, delivering a significant upgrade to one of the key transport corridors serving the International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP). 

The scheme was delivered in partnership with IAMP LLP, a joint venture between South Tyneside Council and Sunderland City Council.

Works included widening the existing single carriageway, upgrading junctions and improving pedestrian and cycle facilities across the 370-acre IAMP site, which is expected to support more than 7000 jobs over the next decade.

A total of 1550 metres of the A1290 has been transformed into a dual carriageway, with much of the work carried out off-line to minimise disruption.

The road upgrade forms part of a wider infrastructure programme designed to “unlock development opportunities” at IAMP, which is home to advanced manufacturing and automotive businesses, including Nissan and its supply chain. 

Officials say the improved route is expected to reduce congestion, shorten journey times and provide safer, more sustainable travel options for businesses, commuters and local communities.

Steven Garrigan, divisional director at Bowburn-headquartered Esh Construction, said: “Delivering the A1290 Dualling Works has been a vital part of improving the region’s strategic road network and supporting future growth at the IAMP.

“This project continues to demonstrate our capability to deliver complex civil engineering schemes that enhance connectivity and unlock development opportunities. 

“Working collaboratively with Sunderland City Council and South Tyneside Council, we’ve provided a high-quality infrastructure upgrade that will serve businesses, commuters, and communities for years to come.”

Alongside carriageway works, the scheme included new drainage infrastructure such as swales and attenuation ponds, as well as street lighting, traffic signals, pedestrian crossings and landscaping. 

Environmental considerations were central to the design, with measures introduced to manage surface water and protect local habitats.

Councillor Margaret Meling, lead member for economic growth and transport at South Tyneside Council, added: “The completion of the A1290 dualling works is a significant milestone in unlocking the full potential of the International Advanced Manufacturing Park. 

“This investment in infrastructure will not only improve connectivity and reduce congestion but also create the conditions to secure new private sector investment and accelerate job creation.”

Beyond construction, the project delivered wider social value, with £6.1 million reinvested into the local supply chain within 30 miles of Sunderland. 

The scheme also supported skills development through apprentice training weeks and work experience placements, alongside sustainability measures that diverted 32,500 tonnes of waste from landfill.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, added: “The completion of the A1290 Dualling Works marks yet another major milestone in the development of the IAMP.

“Since the first building opened its doors in 2019, we’ve seen global firms such as Falco, SNOP, Jatco and AESC all make IAMP their home and the completion of these works will pave the way for further development as we seek to establish it as one of the UK’s most advanced manufacturing hubs.”

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