New Starbucks and Subway outlets could soon arrive in Sunderland

Sunderland City Council’s planning department has received an application for a business unit off Wessington Way in the Castle ward.

The proposed development site, at Hylton Grange near the Premier Inn hotel, is described in plans as the “vacant ICI Dulux Decorator Centre’.

New plans from Cliff Court (Redcar) Developments Ltd aim to demolish part of the site and redevelop the building to form two business units.

This includes the formation of a new ‘drive-thru’ lane and “amendments to car parking arrangements”.

A planning statement submitted to council officials states occupiers of the site “have yet to be confirmed”.

However, the planning statement notes “the applicant is well advanced in discussions with Subway for unit 1 and Starbucks for unit 2”.

Submitted site plans show the drive-thru lane serving the unit earmarked for Starbucks and both business units facing into a car parking area.

Designs show the car park offering around 24 parking spaces, including two accessible bays and a ‘waiting bay’.

In addition, the proposal would include cycle stands to “accommodate the safe and secure parking of up to 10 bicycles”.

The planning statement adds: “This level of parking provision is based on the applicant’s extensive experience of developing similar sites as well as discussions with the potential operators including Starbucks and Subway.

“The proposal of this type is considered small scale and sustainable which is considered supported by policies within the local plan.

“The proposal is considered to make a positive contribution to the local economy”.

A submitted planning application estimates the development would create nearly 20 jobs, with 10 full-time employees and eight part-time roles.

A decision on the planning application is expected to be made once a period of council consultation has concluded.

Information on Sunderland City Council’s website lists a decision deadline of January 30, 2024.

For more information on the planning application or to track its progress, visit the council’s planning portal website and search reference: 23/02357/FUL