Esh completes Sunderland regeneration projects

A North East construction firm has completed two landmark regeneration projects in Sunderland.

Bowburn-headquartered Esh Construction has handed over the Sheepfolds public realm scheme and Riverside Park to Sunderland City Council, marking two significant milestones in the wider Riverside Sunderland regeneration programme.

The Sheepfolds project has transformed the area surrounding the Stadium of Light and Sheepfolds Stables, creating improved pedestrian and cycle routes linking the city centre with the wider development. 

A key feature is a new pedestrian overpass built above the site’s historic cobbled wagonway, restoring the former industrial route while creating a modern, accessible connection to Keel Square.

The scheme also includes natural stone paving, new landscaping, tree planting and sustainable drainage infrastructure to support future phases of development. 

The improved public realm was temporarily opened during the 2026 Women’s Rugby World Cup, giving visitors an early glimpse of the transformed space.

Meanwhile, Esh has completed work on the Southern Gateway and Kingsley Gardens within Riverside Park, delivering new landscaped areas, ponds, public spaces and a community growing area. 

The Southern Gateway provides improved links between the Riverside multi-storey car park, the Sunderland Strategic Eye Hospital, the Vaux housing development and the city's central business district.

Steven Garrigan, divisional director at Esh Construction, said: “The completion of both the Sheepfolds public realm scheme and our Riverside Park work represents another proud milestone for Esh in Sunderland and reinforces our long-term commitment to supporting the city’s regeneration ambitions.

“While the projects are very different in nature, they share a common goal of creating high-quality places that enhance connectivity, celebrate local heritage and provide lasting benefits for the community. 

“Together, they demonstrate how investment in public realm and green infrastructure can support wider regeneration and help attract people to live, work and spend time in the city.”

The projects form part of Sunderland City Council’s long-term vision to regenerate the riverside and create an attractive environment for residents, businesses and visitors.

Councillor James Jackson, portfolio holder for business, housing and regeneration at Sunderland City Council, added: “It’s fantastic to see work complete on the next phase of Riverside Sunderland, which will see the opening of the first phase of our stunning new city park and further enhance the area around Sheepfolds and the Stadium of Light.

“Over the coming months and years, Riverside Sunderland is set to see hundreds of new homes, the national esports arena and new retail and leisure units rise from the ground, and the completion of these critical infrastructure projects mark the latest milestone in the ongoing transformation of the city.”

Alongside the physical improvements, Esh generated wider economic and community benefits, reinvesting £2.5 million into the local economy through its supply chain while supporting apprenticeships, community initiatives and local charities.

With both schemes now complete, preparations are underway to open the new public spaces in the coming weeks, further enhancing Riverside Sunderland as a destination for investment, leisure and recreation.

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