A former pub on Wearside could be transformed into a bar and restaurant under new proposals. Earlier in July, 2022, Sunderland City Council’s planning department validated a planning application for The Eastender in High Street East.
This included a bid to refurbish the existing premises in the Hendon ward and to change the use of the building from a public house to a restaurant. According to a design and access statement submitted to the council, a previous bid to convert the building into student accommodation was lodged and later withdrawn.
Other proposals to create residential accommodation and public areas for a lounge bar and function venue were also discussed but were not brought forward. New proposals aim to modernise the vacant premises, with works to internal floors across two levels.
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The works aim to transform the building into a hospitality venue which will respect the conservation area in which it sits. A design and access statement adds: “The proposals are to completely upgrade both the lower ground floor and ground floor providing fresh bar, kitchen and seating areas along with modern toilet facilities.
“Externally it is proposed to re-plaster/repaint the walls in a colour to be agreed with the planning authority.” No details of proposed opening hours or employment have been provided with the planning application.
A submitted community statement also notes the applicant has “engaged in dialogue with a cross section of the immediate public who have expressed their support for the proposals”. A decision on the bar and restaurant plan is expected to be made by Sunderland City Council in coming months, once a period of consultation has concluded.
For more information on the planning application or to track its progress, visit the council’s online planning portal and search reference: 22/01006/FUL
