Council has pitched to local firms

More than 125 local builders, contractors and suppliers took advantage of an event to find out more about how they can benefit from Sunderland City's Council's investment in new affordable homes.

The Let's Talk Council Housing event at the Stadium of Light saw local business come together to find out how they can work with the council in meeting its investment aims and how they can secure new work with the local authority over the next five years.

The event provided firms with an update on the council's approach to the delivery of new housing services over the next five years, how local contractors can help it meet these aims and how local firms can secure new work opportunities

Coun Rebecca Atkinson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Housing, said: "I'm delighted to have seen so many local businesses come along to this event to find out about our plans for social housing and how they can get on board to help us deliver these. "The council is planning to support the delivery of new homes, make better use of existing housing and provide bungalows for older people as well as new accommodation to support vulnerable groups in the city. We want local businesses to be part of this.” She added: "One of the key aims of the City Plan which sets out the council's plans for transforming Sunderland into a dynamic, healthy and vibrant city over the next decade is around supporting local businesses wherever possible.

“We are looking to link our investment in housing back to local businesses"