Residential Flats Proposed in Sunderland City Centre

Strategic Insights -

Planning officials have received an application to convert the upper floors of a commercial unit at 11 Vine Place into two residential flats. The proposal, submitted by Rock Property Developments Ltd, seeks "prior approval" to create a one-bedroom, two-person flat on the first floor and a three-bedroom, five-person duplex flat across the second and third floors. The design and access statement highlights the demand for housing in the area due to its central location, easy access to transport, and amenities. A similar application in the nearby area was previously rejected due to concerns over the impact on the live music scene.

Key Takeaways:

  • The application, submitted by Rock Property Developments Ltd, seeks to convert the upper floors of a commercial unit at 11 Vine Place into two residential flats.
  • The proposed development would house up to seven people, with a one-bedroom, two-person flat on the first floor and a three-bedroom, five-person duplex flat across the second and third floors.
  • The design and access statement notes the demand for housing in the area due to its central location, easy access to transport, and amenities.
  • A similar application in the nearby area was previously rejected due to concerns over the impact on the live music scene.
  • Ttonic, a late-night venue adjacent to the proposed development, has been a source of contention in the past due to noise complaints.
  • Sunderland City Council has received multiple applications for residential flats in upper floor city centre spaces, with a majority of applications approved by council planning chiefs.
  • However, there have also been planning refusals for similar residential schemes, including a bid for flats above a hot food takeaway in Holmeside, near music venue Independent.

Statistics:

  • The proposed development would house up to seven people.
  • The one-bedroom, two-person flat on the first floor would have a living and dining area, kitchen, and bathroom.
  • The three-bedroom, five-person duplex flat across the second and third floors would have a kitchen, bathroom, and guest bathroom.
  • A design and access statement submitted on behalf of the applicant notes that the building is not listed and has no "historic interest", although no external changes are proposed.
  • The proposed development would prevent a vacant building from deteriorating further and establish a new use that is compatible with the wider context.

Sources:

  • Sunderland Echo: "Planning chiefs receive new application for residential flats in space above city centre bar" [1]
  • Sunderland City Council: Planning portal website (reference: 25/01142/PMC)
  • Rock Property Developments Ltd: Design and access statement