Architects help veterans support group march forward with plans
An organisation in Sunderland that supports ex-service men and women is marching into the future with the help of a local architect and engineering firm.
Veterans in Crisis Sunderland (VICS) provides support, training and counselling to former military personnel, has been helped by Building Design Northern (BDN), who have provided their time and expertise at no cost to develop detailed plans for an extension to its premises in Roker Avenue.
The plans, which were granted planning permission last month, will allow the community interest company to make better use of the building – creating additional capacity and the extension will alsoprovidewheelchairaccess and a multi-functional meeting space and kitchen, fully accessible toilet and an more office space.
BDN associate and architect, Filip Young, said, “We’re reallypleasedtohavebeenable to offer our assistance to VICS, which is an organisation that does so much for the city’s veterans, who themselves have served the country.
“The alterations we designed will ensure that people can easily navigate the building, and that the premises are absolutely fit for purpose.”
The plans were given the green light by Sunderland City Council last month and VICS is looking to get to work immediately – and completed
this year.
Ger Fowler, chief executive officeratVICS,said,“We’redelightedtohavehadthesupport
of BDN in developing designs andsecuringplanningpermission
for our extension.
"The alterations will transformourabilitytosupportveterans in Sunderland.
“As an organisation, the support and generosity of people and organisations is key to enable us to deliver what is much-needed help and support to ex-service men and women, so we’re very grateful to BDN for their goodwill in helping us at no cost.”
The council decision report said: “It is a large, attractive building which is of some prominence in the local area.
"The proposed extension will appear as a modern addition to the property which will not detract from, or compete with, its existing character and appearance and will not appear as intrusive at this site.”
To find out more about VICS, visit www.veteransincrisis.co.uk