This is how Sunderland's Town Park will look if plans go ahead under £1.9million revamp for the Minster area

This is the dazzling new look drawn up for Sunderland's Town Park under plans to revamp the area around Sunderland Minster.
Artist's impression of the plans for Town ParkArtist's impression of the plans for Town Park
Artist's impression of the plans for Town Park

The park, at the south of Sunderland Minster, is part of the Bishopwearmouth Townscape Heritage Scheme that was confirmed earlier this summer.

The £423,000 update to the park, subject to further decisions, including planning permission, could see work starting in spring next year. The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded a total of £1.9million to the council for the overall scheme, which is set to run for five years.

Artist's impression of the plans for Town ParkArtist's impression of the plans for Town Park
Artist's impression of the plans for Town Park
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It is offering building and repair grants to property owners and as well as the major make-over drawn up for Town Park.The plans are being put to Sunderland City Council's ruling cabinet next week for discussion.

A report to senior councillors outlines how there are already 22 potential building restoration and enhancement projects in the scheme with a value of up to £1.2million.

More than ten of the possible projects could see grant offers of £50,000 or more for stonework restoration, window and roof repairs, and replacement shopfronts. Councillor Stuart Porthouse, the cabinet member for Housing and Regeneration, said: "Thanks to the lottery funding, the council is looking to improve the park and, alongside this, support a series of other works in and around this historic area. "Enhancing the park and helping to improve other listed buildings are all about creating higher quality, more attractive, secure and usable public spaces. "The council has a strong track record of working with its partners on improvements and, as well as improving our city scape for residents and visitors, it all helps attract further investment from businesses." The heritage area contains 11 listed buildings including the Grade II* listed Empire Theatre, Sunderland Minster, and the Peacock and Dun Cow Public Houses. The Cabinet meets from 2pm on Wednesday September 19 at Sunderland Civic Centre.