Proposals for new apartments in Sunderland city centre have been submitted to city development chiefs. Earlier in July, 2022, Sunderland City Council’s planning department validated an application for 60 Fawcett Street.
This included converting the floors above the ‘Upmarket’ retail store to four apartments, as well as a roof dormer extension and associated external alterations. The proposed accommodation would be a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments with internal bin storage provided at ground floor level.
Planning, design and access and heritage statements submitted with the application also provide more information on the scheme. Proposed alterations to the front of the building would see the replacement of windows with double glazed units and repainting of the building facade.
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To the rear of 60 Fawcett Street, the plans would include window replacements, a new roof over the second floor extension and new doorways to access a new internal staircase configuration. In supporting statements, applicants said the design amendments would be “largely positive” with the rear changes being “significant improvements on the current design”.
A heritage statement adds the works would have a positive impact on the Sunniside Conservation Area, where the building sits. The planning statement adds: “The proposal is supported by existing national and local planning policies and guidance.
“The alterations to the [exterior] of the building are largely improvements to the elevations. The proposals also present an improvement to the conservation area, both in terms of design and most importantly through the reuse of existing vacant buildings.”
A decision on the apartment scheme will be made once a period of council consultation has concluded. For more information on the planning application or to track its progress, visit Sunderland CIty Council’s online planning portal and search reference: 22/00575/FUL