Transformation planned for city centre high street

There are several projects ongoing as part of the Sunderland Riverside Masterplan

The transformation of a city's high street is being planned by its council.

Plans for a mix of shops, business spaces and flats across four plots on Sunderland's High Street West were submitted on Tuesday.

The proposals form part of Riverside Sunderland Masterplan, which includes the New Wear Footbridge and the creation of connections between the new residential development sites at Sheepfolds, Vaux and Farringdon Row.

Sunderland City Council councillor Kevin Johnston said the developments would "renew" the street by "restoring and retaining some valuable heritage features, and bringing new life and vibrancy".

The plans include the removal of the footbridge connecting High Street West with St Mary's Car Park.

The council said the spaces would "build on the investments in Culture House, the Flower Cafe, the Three Stories and Elephant Team Rooms which are beginning to redefine and re-energise this important city street".

Mr Johnston said: "It is a vital part of our ambition to support our businesses, generate more jobs, provide more high-quality new homes and create more leisure destinations which attract people to live, work, and play in our city centre."

Developer Capital and Centric said it was chosen to work the council to create "an exciting new mixed-use neighbourhood".

Sharon Appleby, chief executive of Sunderland BID, said the plots would "bring vibrancy and footfall and connect the existing retail offer" in the city.

The planning application will be discussed later this year.