STRONG ARM OF THE LAW!
Former police station set to be revived as a state-of-the-art business centre and gym
A former police station in the heart of Sunderland is set to be revived as a state-of-theart business centre – including plans for a gym – after a decision by planning chiefs.
It was revealed in 2020 that The Hanro Group had agreed outlinetermswithSunderland City Council to buy the former divisional headquarters following a competitive-bid process.
As part of its multi-million pound proposal, the North East developer submitted details on a project to convert the siteintomodernflexibleoffice spaces.
This included a complete refurbishment, both internally and externally, to transform theconcrete-cladbuildinginto a business hub aimed at small and medium-sized firms.
A full planning application for the scheme from The Hanro Group was lodged with Sunderland City Council’s planning department and validated in early July this year.
Followingconsultation,the plans were given the seal of approval .
A decision report prepared by council planners outlined the benefits of the scheme, from bringing a vacant building back into use to boosting regeneration efforts across the city.
It reads: “The proposal will importantly secure the building'sfutureforabeneficialuse, assist in sustaining and enhancing the character and appearanceofBishopwearmouth Conservation Area, and make a positive contribution to the economic renaissance of the Minster Quarter and wider regeneration of the city centre.
“Further, it is not considered that the proposal would be detrimental to the amenity of the local area, highway safety or the ecological value of the site.”
Planning permission was previouslygrantedinFebruary 2018 to change the use of the police station to a 'mixed commercial development' - however the council report stated "this consent has now lapsed."
The new change of use will secure Grade A office space throughout the building and the provision of a gym in the basement,alongsideadditional works.
These include the formation of a new car park, upgradeworkstothefacadeofthe building and associated landscape improvements around the site.
A separate planning applicationlinkedtotheprojectwas also approved earlier this year to demolish the attached cell block building.