With the plant employing around 6,000 staff – not to mention the thousands more engaged in the wider supply chain – its importance to the city’s economy cannot be underestimated. Here we look back through our archives at a selection of pictures taken at the Washington plant and in the surrounding community.
1. Looking ahead
Nissan company officials accompanied by members of the negotiating team examine the site at Sunderland Airport shortly before the announcement of the decision to come to Wearside in 1984. Photo: Sunderland Echo
2. Riding high
A wave from Toshiaki Tsuchiya, a director of Nissan, right, as he rides the earth mover as it cuts the Nissan site's first sod. Photo: Sunderland Echo
3. Prime Minister's visit
The then Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher at the wheel of a Bluebird car at the car plant after it was officially opened on September 8, 1986. Photo: PA
4. Watching brief
Another picture from Mrs Thatcher's visit to Nissan in 1986. Photo: Sunderland Echo