New housing development planned for Seaburn seafront site

Plans have been submitted for a new housing community comprising 85 homes at a recently cleared site at the seafront in Seaburn.

Avant Homes North East, a Sunderland-based housebuilder, have lodged their plans with Sunderland City Council to develop the site on Lowry Road.

The firm have put forward proposals to construct a mix of detached and semi-detached two-, three-, and four-bedroom homes on the ground behind the former Seaburn Leisure and Wellness Centre.

Each property will come with a garage, parking space for cars, and a large garden.

The site of the former Seaburn Centre itself is to become a brand-new leisure destination when work on the STACK shipping container complex is completed in spring 2020.

This is not the first housing development for Avant Homes North East, who have previously created new communities in Chester-le-Street, Gateshead, and Wingate.

The firm are currently working with local residents to understand their views on the project, as well as looking at ways they can carry out work without impacting the surrounding green space.

Jennifer Tupman, Avant Homes North East regional director, said: “We have submitted a proposal for a development of design-led homes that will bring high quality properties and a wide range of choice for people living in Seaburn.

“We are committed to creating a development that meets the needs of the local community and delivers exceptional new homes for Sunderland. Subject to planning approval, we hope to commence construction in early 2020.”

The news of the Seaburn proposal comes amidst increased interest in Sunderland from investors, with a total of over £1.5 billion currently on the table to develop the city across various projects.

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Sunderland is establishing itself as a really up and coming seaside city, with business hubs emerging in the city centre, more and better leisure coming forward and new jobs emerging thanks to the attraction of big employers keen to tap into the fantastic people who live here.

“To grow our economy, we need to increase the number of high-quality homes we offer for families — we need to build on the pride that already exists and ensure Sunderland is a place people are happy to call home.

“Avant Homes is a rapidly-growing housebuilder and a company that has a strong reputation for the quality of its homes.

“We’re delighted that they’re interested in bringing forward a scheme that will create an attractive new community in Sunderland.”