Plans unveiled to create dozens of jobs by transforming Sunderland's former Debenhams store into new go karting centre
Plans have been submitted to bring Sunderland’s disused Debenhams store back into use as a go karting centre and leisure hub.
The city council's planning department has received an application for the premises, which have been empty since the High Street giant closed the store in May 2021.
New plans are seeking permission for a major transformation of the three-storey site by Team Sport, which is described in planning documents as “the UK's no1 indoor go karting operator”.
Submitted floor plans confirm the plan, if approved, would see the former department store – which still includes Debenhams signs – house go karting tracks, bowling lanes, an arcade and restaurants.
Floor plans show a restaurant, “arcade zone” and bowling on the ground floor, a 16-kart track and restaurant on the first floor as well as a 16-kart track and “mini racers track” on the second floor.
A supporting letter adds the former Debenhams unit is “no longer suited to modern retail requirements” and states the “continued vacancy of such a prominent anchor unit adversely affects footfall, activity and the overall vitality of The Bridges Shopping Centre and the wider city centre”.
It was argued that bringing the site back into “active and beneficial use” would “support linked trips, increase dwell time, and contribute to the broader regeneration and diversification of Sunderland city centre”.
The development would create around 40 full-time equivalent jobs.
The letter adds: “The benefits of the proposal are that it will provide a high quality commercial development in a sustainable location that is accessible by a wide range of transport modes.
“It will have a positive impact upon the vitality and viability of the shopping centre, as a unit which has laid vacant for over five years will be re-occupied.
“It will have a series of positive economic effects. The proposal will facilitate private sector investment within the area.”
A transport statement notes that the site is in a “highly sustainable location at the heart of Sunderland city centre, with excellent access on foot, by cycle and by public transport”.
It was noted that no changes are proposed to “established access arrangements” serving The Bridges and that existing “pedestrian access, vehicular access, servicing arrangements and the use of the existing shopping centre parking provision will continue”.
A decision is expected following a consultation.