Restoration of “historic” Sunderland landmark set to begin

The restoration of an “historic” Sunderland landmark will soon be commencing as part of major regeneration works to preserve the city’s heritage.

Specialist local contractor NCS Ltd has been appointed by Sunderland City Council to carry out the external repair and enhancement works of the Grade II listed Elephant Tea Rooms, which will include striking new shop fronts and the reinstatement of lost decoration and features.

Constructed at the height of Victorian wealth and investment in Sunderland, the famous Elephant Tea Rooms opened to the public in April 1875 and was used as a grocer’s shop and tea warehouse for Grimshaw & Son.

Located at the corner of High Street West and Fawcett Street in the city centre, the building has a “distinctive” Hindu Gothic style and the upper floors still exhibit original intricate features, including ornamental elephants, birds and gargoyles.

This first phase of external works, designed by Mosedale Gillatt Architects Ltd, includes the repair of “delicate features” and new shop fronts with “intricately designed” brickwork and a vaulted corner turret, inspired by the long-lost elaborate shop frontages which were removed in the 20th century when it was converted into a bank.

Supported with funding of £720k from Sunderland City Council, Historic England and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC) through the Future High Street Fund and Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) projects, the restoration works will begin this month.

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “The Elephant Tea Rooms is an architectural highlight in the city and we’re delighted restoration works will soon start. Building on the success of Mackie’s Corner, the restoration works at the Elephant Tea Rooms will play a key role as we continue reviving this area of our city centre.

Maria Carballeira, from Historic England, added: “The work on the restoration of this wonderful, iconic landmark on Sunderland’s skyline is another positive step forward. It highlights the power of using heritage to breathe new life into the city centre to generate economic, social and cultural recovery.

Sean Anderson, managing director of NCS Ltd, concluded: “NCS was founded in Sunderland, so naturally we are really pleased and quite proud to be trusted to play our part in the delivery of this prestigious, historic and undoubtedly iconic project within the city – the site team are really keen to get started.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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