Water main rupture leads to footpath closure on bridge

A primary water pipe has ruptured on a busy bridge, resulting in water spraying into the river below. This main pipe burst occurred on the Queen Alexandra bridge in Sunderland and led Northumbrian Water to implement a closure of the pedestrian walkway on one side of the structure until necessary repairs are completed. Michael Heskett, a resident of Sunderland, witnessed the pipe’s rupture while in transit. “I was out jogging and it just went pop,” he stated. Northumbrian Water stated that efforts to contain the leak would be “carried out shortly.” The utility provider added, “Due to the high-risk position of the problem and the planning required to carry out the work safely, we expect a full repair to be made early next week.” “We have had to close the footway on the bridge on the left side as you head northbound. “This temporary closure will remain in place until the full repair is undertaken.” The bridge will continue to be accessible for vehicular traffic, but Northumbrian Water advised pedestrians to explore alternative paths. For updates from BBC Sunderland, connect via X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story suggestions can be submitted to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. This content is copyrighted by BBC in 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for material found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.