A new £6.7million dual carriageway is set to reduce congestion and improve journeys in a major UK seaside city after being completed this Christmas. Earlier this month, private construction firm ESH Group confirmed that work has been completed on the A1290 in Sunderland, catering for a new business park.

Builders have transformed 1,550 metres of the A1290 into a dual carriageway to help serve the new International Advanced Manufacturing Park (IAMP). ESH explained that work had finally finished on upgrading junctions, improving pedestrian access and bettering cycle facilities.

It is hoped that the bigger road will reduce congestion, improve journey times, and provide safer and more sustainable travel options for businesses and commuters.

Steven Garrigan, Divisional Director at 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 International Advanced Manufacturing Park.

"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."

The new 623,000 sq. ft IAMP business hub in South Tyneside is set to be a major draw for the city. The site is set to become a world-class hub for high-tech manufacturing and has already attracted big name brands such as car manufacturer Nissan.

ESH claimed that the new road would "improve connectivity" and anticipated the route could create more than 7,000 jobs across Sunderland and South Tyneside over the next 10 years.

Cllr Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, welcomed the new development.

Cllr Johnston explained: "The completion of the A1290 Dualling Works marks yet another major milestone in the development of the International Advanced Manufacturing Park (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."