£10.9m planned for Sunderland road upgrades in 2026
New programme to improve roads, bridges, and transport across the city
Sunderland is set to benefit from a £10.9 million investment aimed at enhancing the city’s roads, bridges, and transport infrastructure.
The City Council’s Cabinet is expected to discuss the ambitious programme during a meeting on 26th March.
The 2026/27 Highway Maintenance, Bridge Maintenance, and Integrated Transport Capital Programme outlines an array of renovations and renewals for roads and structures, alongside projects to improve safety, accessibility, and sustainable travel.
The plan spans all five city areas, prioritising schemes through surveys, traffic data, accident reports, and community feedback.
Planned Transport Improvements
The programme includes numerous transport work plans such as upgrades to traffic signals, the introduction of additional 20mph zones in residential areas, and traffic calming measures.
The council has also allocated an additional £1 million budget for pothole repairs over the next 12 months.
Key Areas for Resurfacing
Resurfacing initiatives will target sections of the A182 in Copt Hill and Houghton, A1018 St. Nazaire Way in Hendon and Ryhope, as well as part of the A1231 in Washington.
Councillor Lindsey Leonard, the Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment, and Net-Zero, emphasised the importance of maintaining a robust and secure highway network.
"A well-maintained, safe and accessible highway network is vital for keeping the city moving," Leonard said. "Many of the proposed schemes support wider city goals, including reducing congestion, improving air quality, supporting public transport, and encouraging active travel."
Further details on the specific locations and dates for next year’s programme are expected to be announced in the coming months.