WORK to launch the deck of a £117m bridge is further proof a city is open for business, it has been claimed.

Contractors yesterday (Tuesday, March 28) manoeuvred Sunderland’s New Wear Crossing’s 300-metre deck from the south side of the River Wear to the north side.

It took 20 hours to slide the 4,750-tonne concrete and steel structure into its final position.

The bridge, the first to be erected over the Wear in more than 40 years, is due to open in 2018.

Linking Castletown to the north of the river with Pallion on the south, bosses say it provides scope for riverbank regeneration, which could see existing companies expand or new firms move to the city.

It is also expected to complement re-development of the former Vaux brewery site into an office and leisure complex.

Stephen McCaffrey, project director for the FVB joint venture, which is delivering the bridge on behalf of Sunderland City Council, told The Northern Echo it was a landmark moment.

He said: “Everyone is delighted.

“We have spent a lot of time on the planning so it’s wonderful to see the crossing taking shape.

“It gives the message to the wider world that Sunderland is open for business.”

Councillor Paul Watson, leader of Sunderland City Council, added: “The bridge is going to be the catalyst for change.

“It will help attract investment, create jobs and breathe new life into this old industrial area."