We’ve rounded up some of the new openings and events planned for when Lockdown eases. Note that information is current at the time of going to print, providing the roadmap for leading the country out of Lockdown goes to plan.
5. The Auditorium, mid 2021
Work is still ongoing on Sunderland's new £11m Auditorium but it's hoped audiences will be able to attend in some capacity by this summer. Construction work on the entertainment venue began in October 2019 and once complete, will have a capacity of 450 people seated or 800 standing - with an outdoor performance space also. It is hoped that the mid-size venue will stamp Sunderland on the touring circuit route for a host of gigs and other performances. Photo by David Allan. Photo: David Allan
6. Kubix Festival, July 2, Herrington Country Park
Kubix Festival returns to Herrington Country Park this year with a rescheduled date of Friday, July 2. The line-up includes Vengaboys, 2-Unlimited, N-Trance, Ultra Nate and East 17.Tickets are priced from £25 from KubixFestival.com. Photo: JPI Media
7. Gin bar, Pier View, Roker, summer 2021
It's recently been announced that the hospitality group behind Tin of Sardines in Durham, the world's smallest gin bar, will convert the disused toilet block in Roker into a gin bar. The plans for the redevelopment of the unit – which the family hopes to have open by summer 2021 - include the construction of an open kitchen, a hanging garden terrace overlooking the sea and the offer of an array of cuisines, from breakfasts and coffee mornings to evening brunches and locally sourced seafood and steaks by night. Photo: Elliot Nichol Photography
8. Seafood restaurant, Seaburn Lower Promenade, Summer 2021
The team behind the city’s much-loved Mexico 70 and Ship Isis are to breathe new life into a disused seafront shelter. The team plan to open a high-end seafood restaurant, aimed at appealing to Sunderland residents as well as attracting customers from across the region. Subject to further fitting out works and permissions, a summer 2021 launch is planned. Photo: submitted