The former Joplings department store in Sunderland is set for a new future after being bought by the city council.
The one-time retail property, based in a prime position between Riverside Sunderland and Sunniside, has been bought by the authority in moves to bring in new retailers, bar and restaurant operators into the city. The building, which was converted into student accommodation around five years ago, will be improved at ground floor level to attract retail, or food and drink businesses which the local authority says will bring vibrancy to the street level.
Additional investment will also be ploughed into the upper floors, improving the external fascia which was left unfinished by the previous owner. The acquisition will allow the council to maintain the current use of the building, after suggestions the building could be sold and repurposed.
