Milestone moment for council housing
begin on the first phase this month.
ConstructioncompanyTolent will handle the first development at Cork Street, building 26 affordable bungalows, 16 of which will be specially adapted to provide homes for people with physical disabilities.
The council will also build a new £1.4million day centre to support people with physical disabilities.
They will be the first council houses built in the city in around 40 years. Housing associations have been responsible for social housing in the city since the council transferred its stock to Gentoo in 2001.
Coun Rebecca Atkinson, Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, said: "It is fantastic to see the plans for our first council housing new-build development progressing at such a positive pace despite everything that we have dealt with recently.
"The new homes at Cork Street, along with the new day centre, will provide muchneeded accommodation and support services for people with physical disabilities.
“I am proud the council can play its part in providing homes and support for our residents, particularly those who are vulnerable and disabled.”
Chris Price, regional director for Tolent, said: "We're delighted to be working with Sunderland City Council on such a significant project that will contribute positively to so many in the city.
"Tolent has played an integral part in the regeneration of Sunderland, helping to shape the cityscape with innovative, unique and world-class buildings including Echo 24, River Quarter, Hilton Garden Inn, the award-winning Beacon of Light and most recently The Beam, the first office building to be developed on the site of the historic Vaux Brewery.
“It's great to be continuing our work in such a fantastic city and we're looking forward to getting started on site."