‘Vibrant’ business hub in historic Sunderland building to create up to 200 jobs

Plans to transform a historic building in a North East city centre into a new business hub have been revealed.

The Grade II listed River Wears Commissioners Building in Sunderland is set to become a modern workspace that can accommodate a total of 48 new businesses and is expected to create up to 200 jobs.

Situated on the corner of St Thomas Street in the city centre, the building, which was originally built in 1907, will undergo improvements following an agreement made between owner Adavo Workspace and Sunderland City Council.

The hub is expected to open its doors by the end of 2020, following a full restoration and redesign of the space.

Mark Black, chief executive at Adavo Workspace, commented: “I’m really passionate about the North East and want to create spaces that help new businesses launch and grow, while bringing back to life character-buildings that create a really unique work environment.

“To find a building like the Commissioners Building, which is unsurpassed in terms of its world-class architectural features and its fantastic city-centre location, was just absolutely incredible and we’re excited to bring it back into use and hopefully secure the future of this 100+ year old building for the next century.”

Cllr Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Adavo to Sunderland, and it’s great to see yet-another private sector partner recognising the vast potential that exists here, as we move forward with a transformative vision for the city centre.

“We know that the city centre has to become an economic driver to help build the vibrant, dynamic, healthy city we are determined to create, and investment like this – that will bring yet more jobs and wealth to Sunderland is a huge vote of confidence in our work as a council.

“We look forward to seeing Adavo’s plans for the building emerge and this spectacular old building being brought back to life.”

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