Footbridge is part of city's 'positive vibes'
BBCThe opening of a footbridge has linked up a city and boosted trade, according to some bars and restaurants.
The £31m Keel Crossing in Sunderland, which links Keel Square to the Sheepfolds area and the city's football stadium, opened in October.
Restaurant owner Tamer Hassan, who runs Ember in Sheepfold Stables, said it felt like the bridge was leading to more walk-ins. "The area feels more integrated with the rest of the city," he said.
Meanwhile Vito Farigu, the owner of restaurant Vito's Osteria, said the bridge had contributed to the "positive vibes" of the city.
Hassan said it seemed like all types of demographics, such as families and students, were regularly using the bridge.
"They're coming in both match days and non-match days," he said.
Sunderland City CouncilKeel Tavern owner Ollie Vaulkhard echoed Hassan's sentiments and said the regeneration of the city's centre was causing a "tourism" effect.
He said on weekends it seemed as if families were simply parking up and "having a look around" the city in a way they were not doing before.
Vaulkhard said the Keel Crossing had linked the city up better, but it was hard to tell whether rising trade was due more to the football club's success or the bridge.
The pub-owner also praised the council for putting on events which encouraged people to go out.
Farigu said the bridge had led to an increase in footfall and he felt confident about the city's future.
"Sunderland will just improve as the time passes," he said.
