High above the River Wear, the Wearmouth Bridge stands as Sunderland’s heartbeat — the link that turned two small riverside communities into one proud city. The first bridge opened in 1796, designed by Thomas Wilson and financed by Rowland Burdon. It was one of the largest single-span iron bridges in the world — a symbol of industrial ambition and engineering brilliance. As Sunderland grew, the bridge evolved with it. Robert Stephenson strengthened it in the 1850s, and by 1929 a new steel arch —

** It is Official ** First to Cross Anderson Bridge! Officially opened — escorted by DTI at 4:48 PM. A huge thank you to everyone involved, and great job getting it open early for the city! | 99.3 The River