Student accommodation plans for Sunderland's former county court buildings

On Friday July 17, city planners validated a planning application for 44 John Street near the Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens.

Developers are looking to convert and expand the former law courts to make way for 45 en-suite bedrooms.

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

The plans have been developed by applicant Sendrig Construction Ltd and agent PJC Architecture Ltd.

Details of the scheme are outlined in a Design, Access & Heritage Statement including the history of the building and plans for its future.

The 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.

However, developers have said building is no longer “fit for purpose”, with new works aiming to meet the demand for student accommodation in the city.

The Design, Access & Heritage Statement reads: “This proposal provides a new lease of life for an important, empty building in the city centre.

“It is critical that these buildings do not stand vacant for too long as that leads to deterioration, vandalism and economic erosion.

“The proposed use works really well for this building and has been designed to allow reversal given the building’s status.

“The proposed contemporary rear extension enhances the conservation area and does not compete with the host building.

“Converting this site into student accommodation will also provide great economic benefits to the City of Sunderland – student fees, employment in the building, spending in the city centre, and helps build the reputation of Sunderland.”

It goes on to say: “With the university intake increasing there will be continued demand as well as the desirability for students to move into good quality accommodation.

“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.”

The former county court building dates back to 1876 and is Grade II-listed.

Proposed works to its exterior would include repairs to brickwork and stonework, minor works to the existing roof, gutter repairs and more.

Internal works would cover stripping out “non-historic fabric’, a new mezzanine floor, passenger lifts, damp proofing and new electrics, heating, hot water and fire safety systems.

Meanwhile, the student development would also boast eco-friendly technologies – from electric heating, LED lighting and solar panels to electric car and cycle charging points.

Sunderland City Council’s planning authority is set to rule on the plans by early September following a period of consultation.

If approved, a private student accommodation company is expected to be appointed to manage the building upon completion.

A separate listed building application has also been submitted to city planners to allow the works to go ahead.

For more information or to leave a comment on the plans, visit www.sunderland.gov.uk/online-applications and search planning reference: 20/00688/FUL

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