Sunderland's iconic Joplings building to be given student friendly makeover

Sunderland’s Joplings department store has been closed for around eight years since 2010, but new plans are underway to give the landmark building a new lease of life.

Its owners, Vergo Retail, fell into administration and the building has been left empty since. Since 1804, it had been a thriving department store for Sunderland’s consumers.

However, planning permission has been approved to turn the building into a 166-bedroom student accommodation by Jaspia Limited.

A spokesperson for Jaspia Limited, Steven Kwan, commented: “We are absolutely delighted that Sunderland Council have approved the planning permission for the student accommodation.

“Students contribute hugely to the local economy and with the regeneration of Sunniside, we hope to work with local business - and of course Sunderland City Council and the University of Sunderland to demonstrate what the city has to offer.”

The building initially was going to be turned into a five star hotel by Hilton Group, Holiday Express and Sanguine Hospitality Limited, but these plans failed to come to fruition.

Understanding the heritage of the site, Jaspia Limited will continue to use the Joplings name with the new accommodation.

Planning permission includes adding a private courtyard, gym, fitness suite and cinema room, as well as study rooms.

Kwan added: “Our goal is to become the North East’s leading student accommodation providers and the only way we can do this is by offering the best facilities and living spaces for students.

“We already have huge success in providing award winning accommodation to students in Middlesbrough and with Jopling House, we will be looking to enhance an already excellent reputation.”