‘LOOK AFTER GREEN AREA FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS’

People living near the seafront have raised concerns about plans for new housing in the area.

Residents gathered to protest at plans to build new homes – additional to the Siglion scheme – on a green field site next to Weardale Avenue, owned by Sunderland University.

Wendy Hannah, whose home overlooks the land, said: “I think the seafront should be developed. I think the seafront needs more to bring people down.

“If you build more houses, the infrastructure needs to be in place to cope with that.”

Dave Donaghey, who also lives in Weardale Avenue, said the emphasis should be on developing attractions to bring people to the seafront, rather than new housing: “We are falling behind when you look at what Newcastle and Durham are doing – or even South Shields.”

Joe Stewart, from Birkdale Avenue, South Bents, said it was wrong to use such a site for development: “I don’t believe we have got much green land in the city,” he said. “I think it is incumbent upon us to look after it for future generations. I think there are plenty of brown field sites that are available to be developed.

Malcolm Bond, who lives in Lonsdale Avenue, said: “It is the only green area around here.”

A University of Sunderland spokesman said: “We are committed to managing the sale of the land at Seaburn responsibly and appropriately, maintaining open and transparent communication throughout with local residents and all ward councillors.

“We are keen to select a preferred developer who understands the need for a high-quality scheme, sensitive to its location, and is committed to meaningful community consultation.

“We have marketed the site for sale as we are undertaking a rationalisation of our portfolio to focus on our core business activities and on developing our teaching and facilities to ensure our graduates have the skills employers need to thrive.”