Regeneration chiefs hail 'major' city office deal

City regeneration bosses are cheering a “significant” Government office agreement.

The Department for Work and Pensions is set to switch to Sunderland’s Faber building.

Officials say the deal “reflects the increasing importance of regional centres in supporting jobs and economic activity.”

They add the department will work across three floors in the five-storey building, with back-office staff expected to switch from an existing Wear View House base next spring.

Faber stands as one of two L&G-backed buildings in the Riverside Sunderland complex that includes commercial, residential and leisure spaces.

Faber’s sister building Maker already counts Just Eat as a tenant.

Mike Coplowe, L&G head of commercial development and regeneration, said: “Our multi-million investment in Sunderland is helping attract major employers, supporting high-quality development and helping to create long-term opportunities for communities and businesses.”

Riverside Sunderland is led by Sunderland City Council.

Councillor James Jackson, the local authority’s cabinet member for business, housing and regeneration, said: “The Department for Work and Pensions’ move to Faber demonstrates clearly that the high-quality office environments we’re creating are a huge draw for businesses.”  

Maker and Faber were designed by Newcastle-based national architectural practice Ryder, with development manager Landid overseeing design and construction on behalf of L&G.

James Silver, Landid managing director, added: “This is a significant commitment that will sustain employment in the heart of Sunderland.”

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