New Sunderland Co-op store approved at garage site, creating a dozen jobs

Proposals for a new Co-op food store in Penshaw have been given the green light by planning bosses.
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The retail chain submitted plans earlier this year to replace its existing store at Percy Terrace with a bigger, purpose-built hub.

This includes moving to the site of established auto repair shop Miller’s Automotive as the firm is looking to relocate elsewhere in the city.

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The scheme will also involve the demolition of buildings off Station Road to make way for the Co-op, which is expected to create 12 full-time jobs.

Stock picture of a Co-op storeStock picture of a Co-op store
Stock picture of a Co-op store

Sunderland City Council’s Planning and Highways (West) Committee discussed the plans at a virtual meeting on Tuesday, June 30.

During consultation, three objections were received from neighbours with concerns ranging from traffic and parking to disturbance from deliveries / construction work and privacy issues.

Cycling UK also lodged an objection calling for cycle parking to be positioned nearer to the shop’s entrance.

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A report prepared by council planners stated deliveries to and from the site would be conditioned not to be carried out in the early morning or late evening.

They added that the site provides “sufficient parking” for the store with any “inconsiderate or obstructive” parking being a matter for the police.

Meanwhile, demolition works to prepare the site would be managed by a plan aiming to reduce the impact of noise, vibration and dust.

A statement from Co-op representatives, presented at the meeting, said the new store would provide improved local shopping facilities for residents.

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It went on to say: “The proposals also represent significant capital investment in the area and will generate a number of additional job opportunities for local people in the construction and subsequent operation of the proposed store.

“The application proposals will therefore deliver clear economic benefits for the local area.”

Following a request from Shiney Row ward member, Coun Dr Geoff Walker, council officers agreed to ask developers to make infrastructure improvements near the store.

This included rebuilding a retaining wall, rather than repairing the existing structure, and road resurfacing works.

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After considering evidence for and against the proposals, councillors backed a recommendation from planning officers to approve the Co-op.

When completed, the site will offer an ATM, a 13-space car park and cycle spaces.

Councillors also heard that restrictions will be put on the lease of the Percy Terrace Co-op site to prevent convenience or retail use in future.

The premises could potentially be converted back to homes or apartments, subject to planning permission.

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