It's a hotel with a rich history - and a bright future.
The news gives us the perfect chance to look back at some Echo archive scenes from the hotel.
It welcomed star guests such as Marlene Dietrich and held all sorts of events from proms to fashion shows.
Awards nights, boxing events and evenings of clairvoyancy have also pulled in the crowds.
Have a look.
1. Retro at the Roker Hotel
So many great scenes from the hotel. See how many you remember. | se
3. Marlene makes an appearance
Marlene Dietrich getting off a plane before heading to her suite at the Roker Hotel in 1966. | se
4. A civic occasion in 1980
The Mayor and Mayoress of Sunderland Coun. and Mrs Len Harper, with the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside. Coun. and Mrs Joe Roberts (left), and the Deputy Mayor and Mayoress of Sunderland, Coun. and Mrs Tom Finnigan (right) at the Sunderland Civic Ball. | se