Student flats plan approved for former court building in Sunderland city centre

Plans to convert a historic city centre court building into student flats have been given the green light by Sunderland City Council.
Former law courts at 44 John Street, Sunderland Picture: GoogleFormer law courts at 44 John Street, Sunderland Picture: Google
Former law courts at 44 John Street, Sunderland Picture: Google

Earlier in July, plans were validated for 44 John Street near the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens.

The Grade II-listed site was used as a county court building until the end of 2018 and has been sitting empty since the Ministry of Justice vacated the site.

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New plans from applicant Sendrig Construction Ltd aimed to expand the former law courts to make way for student apartments.

According to planning documents, the building is no longer “fit for purpose” with new works aiming to meet the demand for student accommodation in the city.

The scheme also includes a four-storey rear extension using translucent materials that can be backlit at night, similar to Sunderland’s Beacon of Light.

During consultation, one letter was received from JD Wetherspoon which operates the nearby William Jameson Public House.

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The pub chain raised concerns about noise complaints from future residents, increased car use and potential impacts on businesses during the construction phase.

Planners said a construction plan would keep businesses informed, while dedicated parking was being provided as part of the scheme.

The council’s environmental health team also advised that, subject to glazing and ventilation being approved for the rooms, no “unacceptable level” of noise disturbance is expected.

The city council’s planning department approved the plans on Monday, November 9.

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When completed, the conversion and extension will allow space for eight self-contained flats and 37 individual bedrooms.

All bedrooms would have a window and benefit from en-suite facilities, with communal areas/kitchens provided at the lower ground floor and the former court room on the first floor.

In a decision report, planners said the change of use was acceptable in terms of principle of use, the impact on the character and appearance of the listed building and conservation area, residential amenity and highways.

The report went on to say: “The proposal would provide student accommodation within the Urban Core which is considered to be a sustainable location in close proximity to transport hubs and it would assist in diversifying the choice of residential accommodation to create sustainable mixed communities within Sunniside.”

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The building will be restricted to student accommodation uses only and any changes in future would need permission from council planners.

Exterior works are also planned as part of the scheme, from repairs to brickwork and stonework to minor works to the existing roof and gutter repairs.

Meanwhile, internal works would include stripping out ‘non-historic fabric’, a new mezzanine floor, passenger lifts, damp proofing, new electrics, fire safety systems and more.

A design and access statement from the developer adds: “With the university intake increasing there will be continued demand as well as the desirability for students to move into good quality accommodation.

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“There are limited options for this type of building and this proposal will provide it with a sustainable future, as it is an important heritage asset.”

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