Plans to demolish store to make way for care scheme

The planning statement confirmed the development would see the closure of the store

Plans have been submitted to demolish a popular shop to make way for a care scheme.

The Southwick branch of B&M, in Sunderland, would be closed to allow for the development of an extra care facility, a planning statement confirmed.

Local residents have objected to the potential loss of the retailer from the site, which would be developed to accommodate a block flats for people with care needs.

Sunderland City Council will make a decision on the outline planning application, submitted by Ropley Properties Limited, following a consultation.

The extra care facility would provide independent living with access to care for those who need it.

The application, seen by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, would allow for the demolition of the majority of the store and the erection of up to 44 residential units, including a new building with 47 assisted living flats.

Those behind the scheme said the proposed mix of residential units is "very much needed".

Under the plans, a smaller commercial unit facing The Green in Southwick would be retained for commercial use.

While there is no "end user" for the site, planning documents state, the "layout has been designed so a smaller convenience-style shop could operate within the unit".

The existing car park would remain and be upgraded to provide more spaces, while green roof terraces would create outdoor space and views over the River Wear "to promote health and wellbeing for the residents".

The developers acknowledged objections from residents following a community consultation exercise, but said the retail units were not classed as a community facility under planning policies.

The planning statement said the scheme would benefit the area through "physical regeneration, provision of a modern commercial unit and a significant increase in resident population 'on the ground' who would use the other local services and facilities in the centre".