New lease holders of former Revolution bar unveil plans for historic site as part of £6m investment creating 50 jobs

Earlier this week it was revealed that the pub in Low Row, in the historic Victoria Buildings, is being transformed into New York-style sports bar, Streetbar SR1.

Theatre Leisure, which runs popular The Rabbit which stands opposite the Victoria Buildings, is to open its latest hospitality venue next month after taking out a lease on the premises, which were left vacant after Revolution Bars announced the Sunderland branch was closing as part of rescue plans for the national chain.

Theatre Leisure co-owners Lee Robson and Dave Guy will launch their latest venture during the last weekend in May 2021, following restoration work and refurbishment of the 12,500 sq ft four-storey space.

The downstairs area will become a sports bar, called Streetbar SR1, while the upper floors will become an exclusive bar area with a roof terrace named Victoria’s Loft, in recognition of the building name.

Around £6million will be invested by Theatre Leisure across The Rabbit, Streetbar SR1 and Victoria’s Loft, creating 50 jobs.

To help with the works, Theatre Leisure has also secured a heritage grant to breathe new life into the historic building.

Lee Robson said: “When the opportunity came up to take a lease out on this important and substantial space, we just couldn’t pass it up, and the timing is fortuitous with the easing of restrictions.

“Set over four floors with lots of room and an outside terrace, there’ll be plenty of space for people to enjoy a drink or a meal with friends and family. I have no doubt there will be an appetite for a new one-of-a-kind sports bar in Sunderland.

“We’ll be looking to employ local people and we think it’s great news for residents, visitors and the city as a whole as we look to the future.

“We’re really excited to be launching our new bar and we’ll be revealing more details soon. We’re currently overseeing a full refurbishment and we will be unveiling our new look in advance of the opening at the end of May.”

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