Sunderland Strategic Transport Corridor (SSTC3)

This multi-award-winning capital infrastructure project delivered a 2.4km dual carriageway to link the Northern Spire bridge with Sunderland city centre. 

To make space for the new highway between the existing highway, Metro line and shipyard, four large retaining structures were constructed in what was considered a major feat of engineering.

SSTC3 was delivered on time and on budget despite the majority of works being completed during the pandemic.

Over 1.6km of work was completed offline, most notably the construction of 500 metres of retaining structures. A soil nail wall, king post retaining wall and two reinforced concrete retaining walls were required given a 20-metre height difference separated the bordering land. 

The soil nail wall was the largest of the structures and was introduced following a value engineering activity which provided time and cost savings for all parties. For the king post retaining wall, anchors were drilled through 20-metre of granular material, the interface of an old quarry and founded into underlying limestone.

Access had to be maintained on this key commuter route through the city centre while working online. Existing highways were widened and realigned between retail and residential areas, roundabout improvements were undertaken and new junctions were constructed, as well as shared use footpath and cycleways throughout. 

Demolition and excavation works were extensive, and major earthworks totalled 144,097m3.

Procured via NEPO, and serving as a pilot for the National Themes, Outcomes, Measures (TOMs) Framework, a wealth of economic and social value benefits created a legacy and set the benchmark. 

Over £26 million was spent in the local area - specifically £8 million in Sunderland and £18 million in the surrounding local area made up of Tyne & Wear, Durham, and Northumberland. A total of 32 jobs were created and more than half of workers were from Sunderland. 

Small to Medium Enterprises (SME’s) were also a key focus as part of the supply chain procurement exercise and £21.6 million was spent with SME’s. The project enabled one company to grow its headcount by 66%. 

Engagement initiatives such as volunteering to create a sensory garden at a nearby school, work experience and apprenticeship opportunities, and donations to charitable projects, provided an all round approach to community wealth building.