Student accommodation plan for ex-county court

convert and expand the former law courts to make way for 45 en-suite bedrooms.

The scheme also includes a four-storey modern extension at the rear using translucent materials that can be backlit at night, similar to Sunderland’s Beacon of Light.

The plans have been developed by applicant Sendrig Construction Ltd and agent PJC Architecture Ltd.

Details of the scheme are outlined in a Design, Access & Heritage Statement including the history of the building and plans for its future.

The site was used as a county court building until the end of 2018 and has been sitting empty since the Ministry of Justice vacated.

However, developers have said the building is no longer “fit for purpose”, with new works aiming to meet the demand for student accommodation in the city.

The Design, Access & Heritage Statement reads: “This proposal provides a new lease of life for an important, empty building in the city centre.

“The proposed use works really well for this building and has been designed to allow reversal given the building’s status.

“The proposed contemporary rear extension enhances the conservation area and does not compete with the host building.”

It goes on to say: “With the university intake increasing there will be continued demand as well as the desirability for students to move into good quality accommodation.

The former county court building dates back to 1876 and is Grade II-listed.

Proposed works to its exterior would include repairs to brickwork and stonework, minor works to the existing roof, gutter repairs and more.

For more information or to leave a comment on the plans, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/online-applications and search planning reference: 20/00688/FUL