Plans to create a stunning new leisure and events venue in Sunderland have been unveiled as part of the city’s continuing riverside transformation.
The former Grade II Listed Stables at Sheepfolds are set for a significant makeover, turning virtually derelict buildings that surround a large yard into an exciting new food, drink and music destination.
Striking CGIs have been released showing music and performance will take place on an outdoor stage, with an open-air yard also set to play host to pop-up events, markets and daytime activity.
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The venue will be connected to the city centre by the new Wear footbridge that will provide a pedestrian and cyclist crossing between Sheepfolds and the former Vaux Brewery site, both of which are being spectacularly reimagined as part of Sunderland City Council’s Riverside Sunderland scheme.
The project to restore the building is being led by Building Design Northern (BDN), the same company which is regenerating the former Grade II Listed Simpson Street School in Deptford, which is now company’s own HQ.
The Sunderland firm has agreed a deal that will see the Stables building - which was previously owned by Edward Thompsons - undergo a £2m renovation, in time to open its doors in 2023 as a brand-new leisure destination for the city.
Richard Marsden, managing director at BDN, said: “We’re proud to be a Sunderland business and to be playing a part in the transformation of a city that has such a bright future.
“The change we are seeing at Riverside Sunderland is undeniable - as is the level of ambition and confidence of businesses like ours and others investing here, as well as the council, to deliver fantastic developments that bring more people into the city.
“We can’t wait to share more as plans take shape and the building transforms.”
An architect, civil and structural engineering firm, BDN moved to the city from Durham after buying the old Simpson Street School in 2019, and it is just about to take the eight apartments it has created in the building to market for rent.
The Sheepfolds building is one of a string of significant developments the business has led in Sunderland, including the exclusive Spire View housing development off Durham Road.
BDN’s plans for the Sheepfolds building, which have been submitted to city planners, include eight shop-fronted units expected to draw in cafe, restaurant and retail operators, as well as two open courtyards, providing attractive outdoor spaces for events and entertainment.
They will look to run a range of events, markets and concerts in the venue, which will draw visitors from the city and beyond.
Coun Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Riverside Sunderland is transforming with some hugely exciting projects in the pipeline that really are putting the city centre on the map and helping us create a brilliant place to live, work and play in the heart of the city.
“Sheepfolds is an area with vast potential, and creating a destination venue that will not only appeal to people on matchdays, but will form a key attraction both by day and by night is something that will kick off the reinvention of the whole area.
"We’re thrilled to see these plans being brought forward by a Sunderland business that wants to invest in and improve the city.”
The venue could open as early as next year, subject to planning approval being granted.
