Plans to convert Sunderland’s Bonded Warehouse into offices for online bingo giant Tombola have been given the green light.
Tombola already operates from several buildings near the historic venue, which closed earlier this year.
New proposals aim to allow the gaming firm to continue recruiting while their older sites at Wylam Wharf and Quayside House are renovated.
This week Sunderland City Council’s planning authority approved the move – which is expected to create an extra 30 jobs.
A report from planners noted Tombola was an “important employer within the city” and said the change of use at Bonded Warehouse was acceptable.
It reads: “It is recognised that the proposals would represent an extension of the operations currently undertaken by Tombola from their headquarters on an adjacent site.
“Due to this inherent link to the adjacent land use and to facilitate the efficient operations of an important and growing business within the city, it is considered that material planning considerations exist to justify the development in this location.
“Furthermore, it is recognised that the application site is located within the urban core a very short distance from the city centre boundary and would represent a relatively modest quantum of floorspace.”
The report added that the proposals would “ensure the continued use of the heritage asset which may assist in its ongoing maintenance and upkeep.”
The Grade II-listed Bonded Warehouse, in the city’s Fish Quay, was once a 19th Century warehouse serving the port.
Over the years it has been used as a bar and restaurant, and for external events such as gigs and functions, including as a student bar for the University of Sunderland.
It opened as an events space in January 2018 following a £250,000 investment.
However, in July 2020 the owners announced the venue would be closing for good due to the ongoing situation around Covid-19.
New plans for the building include temporary socket towers for more than 45 desks, office space on the top floor and meeting space on the ground floor.
Tombola bosses say that the minor office changes will be removed in coming years when the lease is terminated and renovation works at the company’s current buildings are completed.
A separate application for listed building consent was also submitted and approved by council planners.
Council planning papers go on to say: “The works involve the fitting of temporary sockets and erection of a single stud partition [which] are minor in nature and the conservation team remains supportive of securing the future of this important historic building.”
