Millions has been invested in the developments, and we’ve rounded up some of the new additions as well as those that are coming soon. To see the changes being made on the seafront see here.
5. Mackie's Corner
Another of the buildings in Sunderland Historic High Streets Heritage Action Zone (HAZ), Mackie's Corner is being renovated as part of ongoing programme of works and improvements being brought to the city centre by the City Council and its public and private sector partners. Mackie's dates back to the mid-19th century and takes its name from Mr Mackie who had a hat shop on the corner. A brewery, shop and hotel are among ideas for the future uses of the building. The space has also hosted pop-up art exhibitions paying tribute to the building’s history. Photo: JPI Media
6. Holiday Inn, Keel Square
The 120-bed Holiday Inn, which will overlook Sunderland city centre’s Keel Square, will create 130 posts when it is completed towards the end of 2021. The £18m development will also include four ground-floor commercial units with opportunities for food and drink businesses. Photo: submitted
7. Local History Library, Elephant Tearooms
The Local History Library at Elephant Tearooms is back open following lockdown. Work began last year to transform the former bank into the new library. Known for its eye-catching façade featuring ornamental elephants and oriental birds, the Elephant Tea Rooms on the corner of Fawcett Street and High Street West, has had many guises over the years. Built between 1872-1877 by Henry Hopper and designed by Frank Caws, in its day the Elephant Tea Rooms was once home to a business credited with controlling one of the largest retail tea, coffee and grocery trades in the North East of England. Photo: JPI Media
8. River Wear Commissioners Building
The historic Sunderland River Wear Commissioners Building to become vibrant new business hub under £3million plans. The building, on the corner of John Street and St Thomas Street, will create a modern workspace for up to 48 businesses. The 1907, three-storey building was built on the site of the old post office. It features beautiful oak panelling, ornate wood carvings, granite, marble and sandstone features Photo: JPI Media