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.
9. Impressive in 2008
The 4th Regiment of the Royal Artillery was given a reception at the hotel in 2008 after marching through the city. | se
10. On the catwalk
The Wearside Rotary Club fashion show at the Roker Hotel with 6 year old Jonathan Pearson on the catwalk in 2009. | se
11. A big night out
The W.O.W. Awards for Sunderland and South Tyneside were held at the Hotel in 2015. See if you can spot a familiar face. | se
12. Prom time
Year11 pupils from Castle View Enterprise Academy at their prom in 2015. | se