Sunniside Leisure hub could be transformed in £1.9m plans
Sunderland City Council has submitted an outline planning application for the £1.9 million redevelopment of the Sunniside Leisure buildings.
The proposed upgrades include repairs to the Grade II listed building façade, improvements to the surrounding streetscape, new shop frontages, and refurbishment of several leisure units.
A new brand, Sunniside Social, would also be introduced as the council looks to deliver a series of longer-term changes aimed at enhancing the commercial offer and encouraging more footfall in the area.
Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration, and business at Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunniside is very much an area on the up.
“Over recent years, we’ve seen millions of pounds invested into preserving some of the area’s most historic buildings, numerous bars and restaurants have opened, and it has become home to the National Esports Performance Campus.
“Construction also started earlier this year on the development of the Nile + Villiers community, which will comprise of 75 new homes and new commercial units fronting onto the high street, and we see Sunniside Social – which is situated right in the heart of Sunniside – as being the next big development to increase vibrancy in this part of the city.”
Should consent be granted, Sunniside Social will comprise a cluster of major leisure spaces, and smaller venues for restaurants, bars, and more, expanding the offer at this increasingly popular destination.
Ireland’s largest cinema operator Omniplex recently signed a new long-term lease at the complex and is currently carrying out a full refurbishment of the screens and front of house area.
There is also a bowling alley, multi-storey car park, and Grosvenor Casino adjacent to the site.
The new units outlined in the proposals range from 2,911sq ft to 16,706sq ft and will be spread across the ground and first floors, with Lofthouse & Partners, Starka, and @retail marketing the properties.
Councillor Johnston added: “The proposals will see improvements to the building façade and streetscape as well as internal enhancements to ensure the facilities are more appealing to investors.”
The planning application was submitted on May 12, with works expected to start later this year, should consent be granted.