Former Sunderland Ann Summers store to become nail bar after plans approved

In August, Sunderland City Council received a ‘change of use’ bid for a shop space on 259 High Street West.

The applicant, listed in planning documents as Mr Kiong Tiew Ling, aimed to revamp the vacant shop space.

This week, city planners approved the plans paving the way for a new business in one of Sunderland’s main shopping streets.

The nail bar will trade as ‘I.Nails Express’ with opening hours including 9am-6pm, Monday to Saturday and 10am-6pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

In response to questions from the council’s environmental health team, applicants argued they did not need a ventilation system.

This was because of the “odourless” liquid acrylic used for nail extensions which, they claim, differs from “conventional nail bars.”

The council agreed to this request, but suggested a condition to restrict the types of products used.

If the business introduces a product with a higher solvent content in future, owners would need to inform the council’s planning authority.

A response from the council’s environmental health department read: “I can recommend that an extract ventilation strategy will not be required.”

During consultation, one letter of objection was also received from the director of Star Nails, based at 253 High Street West, over increased competition.

However, planning officers said the concerns could not be given “material weight”.