Stalled homes plan back before councillors

Work on the development in Washington had been scheduled to start in the summer of 2023

Plans to build new homes for older residents are to be discussed again by councillors almost two years after work should have started on the scheme.

Sunderland City Council approved plans for 84 apartments and 13 bungalows at Moorway, Washington, in October 2022.

Applicants Esh Construction and Gladglider Projects had hoped to start building in summer 2023.

But no work has yet taken place due to the lack of a legal agreement over the provision of affordable homes, as well as an outstanding requirement for detailed landscaping and road improvement plans.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, councillors will be recommended to approve the application again, but on condition that the legal agreement is completed by 25 April.

The authority will also ask for updated ecology reports given the delays at the site which remains overgrown and partially covered in woodland.

The development, near Washington Highway, was originally approved in 2022

The developer plans to construct a T-shaped three-storey building, operated by a registered social landlord and aimed at older people, alongside new bungalows.

While the scheme had been designed to allow residents to live independently in their own homes, proposals also included 24/7 on-site care and support for those who need it.

Sunderland councillors will discuss what happens next to the planning application on Monday evening.