Sheepfolds Stables businesses disappointed by delay to new Sunderland footbridge
Written by Lewis Newton on 1st October 2025
Sheepfolds Stables, a new food, drink and events venue close to Sunderland’s Stadium of Light, has seen its businesses left disappointed by the delayed opening of the city’s newest footbridge.
Keel Crossing, the £31 million bridge linking the city centre’s refurbished Keel Square with Sheepfolds, was due to open at the end of August but remains closed more than a month later. Sunderland City Council has not yet confirmed a date for its grand opening, though it is expected before the new year.
The Sheepfolds development opened to visitors in August 2024 and has already become a popular spot with the footballing community due to its location only a few hundred metres from the stadium.
Credit: Sunderland City Council
Tom Cuthbert, head chef at PROPA!, a Sheepfolds Stables restaurant launched by TV personality Si King and known for its pie and mash and other hearty classics, said: “It is a bit of a shame that it hasn’t opened yet, but as soon as it opens it’s going to be absolute chaos — in a good way.”
Fellow head chef Joe Blythe added: “We are all really excited. It’s great for Sunderland. Everyone is just buzzing about Sunderland.”
Both chefs were positive about the impact Keel Crossing will have once it opens. Tom noted their busiest day so far came during the opening ceremony of the Women’s Rugby World Cup at the Stadium of Light on 22 August, when thousands of England fans crossed the bridge to watch the match against the USA.
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The crossing is also expected to provide easier access to Sheepfolds for football supporters on match days, helping to reduce congestion around the stadium.
Sunderland City Council were approached for comment.
