Transformation of Sunderland's Town Park: Multi-million pound development takes shape in heritage quarter

Work has been underway for months on the open space next to Sunderland Minster, which has had a major facelift as part of the Bishopwearmouth Townscape Heritage Scheme.

The finishing touches are being made to the development, but already in place are steps, benches and planted areas, which will form the backdrop for a range of activities in the future.

The new Town Park is part of a wider scheme, which saw Sunderland City Council awarded a £1.9million National Lottery Grant by the Heritage Lottery Fund.

In a major boost to one of the city’s most historic areas, the cash, which was awarded in June 2018, is also being used to restore and enhance properties near the Minster.

A five-year programme of activities and events to promote the area's heritage is also being planned. Buildings and land around the Minster, the Empire Theatre and Town Park are all part of the Bishopwearmouth Conservation Area.

It is one of the three original settlements that came together to form Sunderland, and one of the first parts of the city to be designated as a conservation area.

One of the nearby buildings to benefit from the scheme is The Rabbit, which will receive £180,000 to enhance the building.

Construction work has also taken place at the Dun Cow and Peacock pubs as part of the scheme, which is aimed at preserving heritage whilst also boosting footfall.

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