By David Walker, chief executive of Sunderland arc 

It is great news that planning permission has been granted for Sunderland’s proposed landmark bridge. 

Back in 2003 we identified this structure as being key to the regeneration of the city, linking important development sites as they come forward with new homes, offices, shops and jobs.

There have been some concerns raised over the sustainability of this project but the fact is that the scale of development and the number of jobs which will be created in Central Sunderland means the road infrastructure needs improving. We have to make sure the development sites can be serviced properly by transport links.

The council has spent millions of pounds improving cycle ways in Sunderland and a new bridge will free up capacity on the Wearmouth and Queen Alexandra Bridges, making more room for bus routes.

This is a real opportunity to give Sunderland something special. It shows potential investors that we are serious about what we are doing in Sunderland and signals a confidence in the city.

We will continue to work closely with the City Council and organisations such as One North East and the Department for Transport to move to the next stage of this exciting project.