Council unveils grand plans for Sunniside Social

A city centre leisure hub is poised for a major transformation as part of Sunderland’s ongoing multi-billion-pound regeneration plans. 

Sunderland City Council has submitted an outline planning application for the £1.9 million redevelopment of the Sunniside Leisure buildings. 

Officials at the council say the project includes façade repairs to the Grade II-listed building, streetscape enhancements, new shop fronts and refurbished leisure units. 

They add that under the new ‘Sunniside Social’ brand, the area will host a mix of leisure venues, restaurants and bars, as the council aims to implement a series of “longer-term improvements to upgrade the commercial offer and rejuvenate the footfall and vibrancy of the area”.

Artist's impression of how Sunniside Social could appear if plans are approved

Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunniside is very much an area on the up.

“Over recent years, we’ve seen millions of pounds invested into preserving some of the area’s most historic buildings, numerous bars and restaurants have opened, and it has become home to the National Esports Performance Campus.

“Construction also started earlier this year on the development of the Nile + Villiers community, which will comprise of 75 new homes and new commercial units fronting onto the high street, and we see Sunniside Social – which is situated right in the heart of Sunniside – as being the next big development to increase vibrancy in this part of the city.”

Omniplex, Ireland’s largest cinema operator, has recently signed a new long-term lease at the complex and is currently carrying out a full refurbishment of the screens and front of house area.

There is also a bowling alley, multi-storey car park and Grosvenor Casino adjacent to the site.

Councillor Johnston added: “Crave, The Bridge Hotel Vaults, Diego’s Bar, The Sofia and Sonny’s at Pop Recs have all invested in the area over recent months and years, and with Mackie’s Corner at capacity, we see this latest development as being key to ensuring we can continue to capitalise on Sunniside’s growing popularity.”

Planning consent is awaited, with works expected to begin later this year.

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