The North Sunderland area is defined to the west by the A19, to the north by the boundary with South Tyneside, to the east by the coast, and to the south by the River Wear.  Statutory Local Plan coverage was previously provided by the North Area Local Plan (the area west of the railway line); the Monkwearmouth Local Plan (Monkwearmouth and part of Roker); the Southwick Green Action Area Local Plan; and the Tyne and Wear Green Belt Local Plan (parts of the northern fringe and river valley).

The area is highly urbanised and had a 1991 population of around 59,000 persons i.e. some 20.4% of the City's population. This contrasts with the situation in 1981 when the area contained 65,000 residents, representing 22% of the population, indicating a more rapid rate of decline (around 9.5%) than in the City overall. The greatest loss over this period was in Town End Farm Ward (-21%) resulting from the restructuring of flats to conventional housing, Southwick also showing a significant loss (-12%). There is little land available for development within the densely developed inner area although sites are available in more peripheral locations.  During the early 1990’s only a limited amount of new housing was built apart from the phased development of land at Grange Road, Castletown.

Sunderland North suffered from the run down in the traditional industries of shipbuilding and coal mining.  This left a legacy of sites with potential for new development along the riverside, many in the former Development Corporation area.  New economic development and the Enterprise Zones have been located in proximity to the main road network, especially Wessington Way.  The Nissan complex, a major source of employment, is located adjacent to the area to the west of the A19; at the end of 1993, it employed some 4,250 persons. Major centres of employment are situated at North Hylton Road, Ferryboat Lane (Sunrise Business Park), Low Southwick, Sheepfolds and Bonnersfield. Employment related development is principally proposed in the former Tyne and Wear Development Corporation's Hylton Riverside area, extending from the Queen Alexandra Bridge to Baron's Quay.

Unemployment within North Sunderland stood at 10.5% in December 1996, the corresponding City figure being 9.6%. The level of unemployment was particularly high in certain wards, namely Southwick (14.0%); Colliery (13.8%); and Town End Farm (12.0%). Conversely Fulwell had the lowest unemployment rate in the City (3.7%). This reflected the earlier 1991 Census figures, which showed Town End Farm and Southwick to have levels of unemployment significantly above the City average and more than twice the national rate.

The economically active population of North Sunderland was around 25,300 in 1991, a fall of 4,600 since 1981. This reflected the area's declining population as the numbers of economically inactive residents only rose by 1,000 persons. It is noteworthy that Town End Farm had one of the lowest proportions in full-time employment whilst conversely, Fulwell had the highest proportion in part-time work in the City. At 20%, it is significantly higher than the national average.

Examination of the economically inactive population in 1991 revealed that Citywide the highest proportions were the retired. Town End Farm had one of the lowest proportions retired (34%), whilst Fulwell had the highest (50%). A slightly higher proportion of North Sunderland's residents were permanently sick (18.9%) than the City, Town End Farm (24.8%) and Southwick (23.1%) having particularly high concentrations. Once again, Fulwell had the lowest concentration in the City (12.5%). The 'other' inactive category includes persons occupied full-time in looking after their homes and families. Whilst the overall proportion in North Sunderland was in line with the City-wide situation, Town End Farm had the highest proportion (40%).

The predominant land use is residential, with the housing stock and its environment varying in age and quality. Older housing is concentrated in the former townships and villages of Southwick, Monkwearmouth, Roker, Fulwell and Castletown, many in the form of single storey, terraced "Sunderland cottages."  The best quality older housing is found nearer the coast with Roker having a number of more substantial dwellings in attractive surroundings on the cliff top and surrounding Roker Park.  Other older areas have a much poorer environment, lacking open space and landscaping.  Inter-war housing surrounds the original settlements particularly in the east, with a mixture of private and council estates.  Post-war developments of predominantly council housing extend to the west and link up with the previously isolated former mining village of Castletown. Most of the area west of Newcastle Road is within the former ‘City Challenge’ area, which terminated in 1998.

Citywide between 1981 and 1991 there was a substantial increase in the proportion of housing in owner occupation. However, Colliery, Fulwell and St. Peter's were amongst the wards in the City showing least change.

"Standard of living" indicators improved generally during the inter-censal period. North Sunderland showed the greatest improvement in the proportions of households living at one or more persons per room (from 4.5% to 1.8%), although Southwick (3.1%) and Castletown (2.9%) contained the largest number of such households in 1991. There was also a marked reduction in the proportion of households without a bath or W.C., down from 3.7% in 1981 to 1% in 1991, broadly in line with the City overall. Significant improvements were made in the quality of amenity in areas of older housing, especially Colliery (down from 9.3% to 1.1%) and St. Peter's (6.9% to 2.1%).

The Citywide rise between 1981 and 1991 in the proportion of single parent families was reflected in North Sunderland (5.7% in 1991) with Town End Farm (9.7%) having the largest proportion in the City. There was a decline in families with three or more children, mirroring the Citywide trend but at a slightly lower level. However, Town End Farm (7.2%) and Southwick (6.9%) were amongst the highest proportions in the City, whilst Fulwell had by far the lowest proportion (2.4%). The proportion of pensioners living alone in North Sunderland in 1991 (16.6%) was above the Citywide average. This was reflected in most wards, but particularly Colliery (20.4%-the highest in the City), St. Peter's (18.3%) and Castletown (18.0%).

Two sizeable traditional local shopping centres serve the area (see Fig.6.2).  That at Sea Road (5,900 sq.m.) serves a fairly extensive and prosperous area including parts of South Tyneside, whilst Southwick Green (6,150 sq.m.) is the main focus for residents of the western estates. In addition, there is a centre at Monkwearmouth; this is more complex in nature, being fragmented by a major one-way traffic system.  It comprises a range of uses, including a retail park. There is a further retail park at Hylton Riverside and a major out-of-centre supermarket at the seafront forming part of the Seaburn Park development.

The Sunderland City College has premises at Redcar Road with modern facilities on a large campus. There are three well distributed Comprehensive Schools and twenty two Primary Schools serving the area. Some of the primary schools are housed in old premises and therefore scheduled for replacement.  There is an ongoing programme of rationalisation where surplus places arise; this may lead to further changes in this provision.  There is also a range of other social and recreational facilities such as community and 'Aim High' centres, providing leisure and educational activities. There is also an indoor leisure centre on the seafront at Seaburn.

Whilst there is generally a high level of provision of amenity open space in North Sunderland (2.9ha./1000 population) there nevertheless remain localised areas which are considered deficient. Chief amongst these are Monkwearmouth, Marley Pots, and Fulwell (all requiring neighbourhood open space) and Town End Farm (deficient in local/ neighbourhood open space). However, in some instances the need for further facilities is offset by current commitments (e.g. the element of amenity space in the scheme north of Downhill and up-grading of Hylton Dene/Bunny Hill). Playing field provision, at 0.5ha/1000 population, is at present the poorest of the four areas of the City. There are however a number of assets whose potential for active recreation use can be exploited, notably Fulwell Quarries, the urban fringe north of Downhill and the riverside. Implementation of schemes in these areas will substantially minimise this deficiency.

There are a number of physical features making a significant contribution to the area's environment which will be retained and enhanced as open spaces, in order to support the area's image and facilities. The seafront is the best known recreation area in North Sunderland, offering a wide range of activities, both indoor and outdoor.  The attractions draw people from a wide area especially during special events and are of regional significance.

The urban environment contains a number of feature which reflect the area's heritage (St. Peter's Church, Hylton Castle, Fulwell Mill and Monkwearmouth Railway Station). Additionally there are two Conservation Areas, one based on the former fishermen's cottages at Whitburn Bents and the other on the Roker seafront together with the area around Roker Recreation Park which contains distinguished housing and St. Andrew's Church (known as the Cathedral of the Arts and Craft movement). Interspersed with the developed areas are major features such as Fulwell Quarries, Hylton Dene, the River Valley and the coastal strip.  These are often associated with dramatic topography which emphasises their environmental potential.

North Sunderland is an integral part of the larger urban area of Sunderland, there being a high level of interaction between the northern and southern areas for employment, the provision of goods and services, and social and recreational facilities. The proposals reflect this, but affect the area in differing ways. Three broad areas have been defined, as described below (See paras 20.21-20.25).

Overall, the development proposed takes advantage of the physical and social infrastructure already in place, notably major roads, drainage and sewerage systems, also schools and other social/economic facilities. It seeks to ameliorate the problems deriving from the relative deprivation which afflicts parts of the area by ensuring provision of a diverse range of facilities within a framework of attractive living, working and recreational environments.

The scope for major changeis limited by the highly developed nature of much of the area, especially in the older eastern part.  Within the framework of the various constraints, the following strategic considerations apply:-

• Economic regeneration, especially by the provision of land for new development in the vicinity of Wessington Way, is intended to exploit the locality's accessibility to the strategic route network and the advantages of its Enterprise Zone status; this area is also accessible from wards with high levels of unemployment.
• New housing is to be developed on sites of a variety of sizes to meet the needs of different sectors of the local market. Located in the main in the western part of the sub-area this housing will help retain population and diversify its structure.  Complementary to this are proposals to upgrade the older stock - both public and private - along with its environment.
• The protection and enhancement of certain existing shopping centres, especially those which may be at risk through changing shopping patterns is emphasised so as to ensure a range of accessible facilities for the local population.  Additionally, the strategy envisages new local shopping development in accessible locations related to areas of deficiency.  Provision for specialist/ bulky goods outlets which meet anticipated demands for modern retail floorspace will be made where its impact on traffic, the environment and existing shopping centres is acceptable.
• Provision is made for Education, Health and Community requirements in accessible locations to meet local needs in an effective way.  The strategy also envisages completion of the new St. Peter's University Campus and improved accommodation for the City College which will make a major contribution to the improvement of the image of this Inner Area, and educational and job opportunities within it.
• The recreational potential of the area's natural features such as the seafront, Fulwell Quarries, Downhill, Hylton Dene and the Riverside area, to provide facilities serving local, Citywide and regional needs is pursued.
• The environment is protected and enhanced, in particular listed buildings and their settings (such as the former Monkwearmouth Station), existing and potential Conservation Areas, and sites of importance for nature conservation (e.g. Fulwell Quarries).  Tree planting to break the hard edge of built-up areas, especially adjoining the Green Belt, will be encouraged.
• A high level of accessibility to facilities within the area, to other areas of the City, and the region is ensured by provision of a variety of modes of travel.  Of particular note are proposals for a new Wear Bridge and the Metro extension through the area with its stations at Seaburn, Portobello Lane and Monkwearmouth.

Within the older predominantly residential areas in the eastern part of the sub-area the emphasis will be on improvements to the environment, especially in regard to open space and community related facilities.  Little new development on any scale is expected other than within established shopping and industrial/commercial areas.  Where necessary the upgrading of the housing stock (mainly private) is encouraged.

The emphasis in the west is on consolidation of existing uses, the re-structuring of the existing Council housing stock along with environmental improvements including improvements to shopping centres. This has beenassisted from "City Challenge" funds. It is within this area that most new housing is proposed. Improvements to local shopping facilities to serve the outer estates are also envisaged.

The strategy envisages major change in the riverside area where new employment opportunities are concentrated, especially at Hylton/Southwick Riverside.  To the west, the river valley is protected by the Green Belt and recreational uses encouraged.  Throughout the riverside zone public access to the waters edge will be encouraged.  East of Queen Alexandra Bridge the major schemes involve development of the Wearmouth Colliery (Stadium Park) site, the St. Peter’s University Campus/ Glass Centre and the North Haven Housing Development.  Overall, these projects will significantly assist the regeneration of the Inner Area.

The strategy for the seafront area exploits the recreation/tourism potential of the locality by increasing the range of facilities whilst also enhancing the environment.  Proposals therefore balance new development and conservation; environmental improvements include provision for traffic management measures.

Within the Northern Urban Fringe the strategy exploits the potential of the area for recreational use, particularly at Fulwell Quarries and north of Downhill to provide a wide range of facilities accessible from adjoining residential areas.  It is aimed at protecting agricultural uses to the north, enhancing the Green Belt and panoramic views.  A minor extension has been made to the Green Belt in the vicinity of Seaburn Dene.

Other than Castletown/Ferryboat Lane, which was largely constructed during the 1990's, these are traditional centres of employment comprising a range of well located sites of between 2.2ha. and 32ha., amounting to some 58ha. in total. New uses which reinforce their industrial role and contribute to the economy are to be encouraged on all sites as specified above. The largest area, North Hylton Road, is a well established post war estate occupied by a wide range of uses of varying sizes (between 50sq.m. and 4ha.), whilst Sheepfolds and Bonnersfield are both older with premises generally being small in size (mainly less than 0.1ha.) and accommodating a variety of industrial/ business activities. In the latter area a prestige managed office centre has recently been developed, at St. Peter's. The estates are all accessible from wards having high levels of unemployment (i.e. Southwick, Colliery and Town End Farm), therefore their retention in industrial use and enhancement is important to maximise the number of accessible job opportunities. All are relatively accessible to the Strategic Route Network; North Hylton Road and Castletown in particular have high levels of access to the regional road network (A1(M) and A19(T)) via purpose-built roundabouts and Wessington Way (A1231).

These large sites comprise Sunderland Enterprise Park, and form an Enterprise Zone, development of which provides a new source of employment within the river corridor, replacing jobs lost with the closure of the shipyards. As such they are of significance in the attainment of the Council’s economic development policies as set out in Part I. They are strategically located on or adjacent to the A1231 (Wessington Way), having direct access to it from a number of roundabout junctions as well as via a connecting spine road which runs between Queen Alexandra Bridge and Wessington Way at Castletown. The sites thus have a high level of accessibility from other parts of the City and the regional road network, which gives them considerable development potential.  They are also in proximity to areas with high levels of unemployment (Southwick, Colliery and Town End Farm Wards) and their development should therefore enhance the population's accessibility to an improved range of employment opportunities.

More detail regarding each site is set out below:-

Hylton Riverside: As at the mid 1990’s little land remains undeveloped within this area. Within the Hylton Riverside/ Southwick Enterprise Zone, it constitutes a 'flagship' development of the former Development Corporation. Development, with a high standard of design and quality landscaping, which provides a prestigious business park where B1 uses predominate.  B2 and B8 uses are not covered by the Enterprise Zone scheme but they may still be acceptable provided they conform to the overall standard of external appearance and do not have any adverse impact in terms of noise, fumes, vibration or traffic generation which would detract from the overall quality of the development.Development of this area will be subject to the traffic generated being capable of being accommodated safely on the A19/A1231 junction, with any appropriate improvements at the developer's expense, to the satisfaction of the Highways Agency (see T14 para 15.47)

Former Southwick Yard: development of this area was progressing at a rapid pace by the mid 1990’s. The locality is appropriate for B1 and B2 users, with B8 uses considered on their individual merits. Whilst the primary criterion is employment potential, the prominent position of the site between Wessington Way and the Riverside will necessitate a high standard of development.  Development of this area will be subject to the traffic generated being capable of being accommodated safely on the A19/A1231 junction, with any appropriate improvements at the developer's expense, to the satisfaction of the Highways Agency (see T14 para 15.47).

Proposals NA1 and NA2 will be further supported through ongoing efforts to retain/provide job and training opportunities which are community based, by local enterprise and 'aim high' centres together with other appropriate initiatives which may arise.

The remainder of the site of the former Wearmouth Colliery available following development of the ‘Stadium of Light’ represents an important development opportunity for the following reasons:-

• This out-of-centre site is still centrally situated in proximity to the City Centre, with the potential for a wide range of forms of development. It could therefore make a significant contribution to inner area regeneration although in relation to commercial/public office or leisure use development, its appropriateness will be judged in relation to other available sites by the application of the sequential test;
• it has good road access which will be enhanced by road improvements (see Proposal NA39); public transport in the vicinity is also good and will be further improved by construction of the proposed Metro extension;
• it is a potentially high profile site in a prominent location overlooking the river.

Proposals for this site should therefore be of a prestigious nature, built to a high standard of design, to make a positive contribution to urban and riverside regeneration in accordance with the economic development policies set out in Part I.

The pursuit of an option for redevelopment for economic development uses (i.e. B1/B2) would undoubtedly contribute towards replacing those jobs lost by the closure of the colliery. This option could however be in direct competition with other riverside sites at Southwick/Hylton Riverside. These have the advantage of Enterprise Zone status and lie closer to the A19 although the recent rapid take-up of sites means only a limited area remains uncommitted. In the light of this, the remaining land at the former colliery site could be considered for economic development.  Other possibilities, such as development for leisure/community uses (C2, D1, D2) could take advantage of the locational benefits of this area and consolidate the emerging leisure role of the locality arising from the adjoining stadium development, although as noted earlier, the appropriateness of these uses will be determined at the planning application stage by the use of the sequential test. In view of recent major retail developments in North Sunderland and the need to focus new development of this sort into existing centres, it would not be appropriate to promote the development  of further shopping although there would be no objection to some appropriate development for A3 use ancillary to other uses on the site.

There is likely to be a demand for further commercial development of varied nature in North Sunderland; the localities identified are considered appropriate for the uses specified for each. Their high level of accessibility from the Strategic Route Network and visual prominence results in their having potential for a wide range of commercial uses. Acceptable uses vary, reflecting existing uses, commitments (i.e. planning permissions) and the opportunities presented by each location. The first three sites may have potential for some limited forms of retail development and there may be scope for other key town centre uses, subject to application of the sequential test, the impact of development and the other criteria set out in the policy. In general the Council will look for diversity of development to ensure areas do not become too retail orientated as this would be contrary to the concept of mixed use sites as defined in policy EC5 and could undermine existing centres and retail proposals of the Plan in the vicinity.  The requirements of policy S7 will apply to retail development with limitations imposed on the type of retailing to be allowed either through the use of conditions or section 106 agreements. This will enable the Council to ensure that retail development is situated where it is accessible to potential users, appropriate to the locality, and does not have an adverse impact on facilities or proposals of the plan elsewhere. In this regard bulky goods/retail warehouse type development is most likely to be acceptable on those sites identified as suitable for retail uses; it is unlikely that convenience retailing will be appropriate unless a case can be made on the basis of a local need under S3 and a more suitable site is not available. Existing permitted development rights will not be affected by this proposal.

Hylton Grange: This is a high profile site as a result of its strategic location in relation to the A1231 and A19(T). Proposed uses reflect existing development/ approvals, as well as its locational potential.

Camden Street: This inner area locality contains a number of showrooms/premises with an element of specialist retailing, as well as industrial and storage premises. It is reasonably accessible from the main road network and close to areas of high unemployment. The scope for major or prestigious development is limited by plot size/shape, and by the general image of the area. For these reasons it is appropriate to encourage its development for a range of uses reflecting the current situation to provide local employment opportunities.

East Castletown: The accessibility and prominence of this site from Wessington Way emphasises its potential for retail warehouse/bulky goods development as well as commercial uses and uses such as offices and storage. Its proximity to Castletown and Hylton Castle enable it to provide local employment opportunities.

Portobello Lane/Newcastle Road: This area has a main road frontage to Newcastle Road, currently occupied by car showrooms. To the rear is unused land, open storage and a depot. The proposal reflects existing uses and expands the potential range of uses taking account of the need to protect residential amenity and ensure an attractive entry into the City; consequently a high standard of design will be sought in any development. Retailing will be resisted in view of the proximity of the Sunderland Retail Park and adjoining area to which the railway forms a logical physical boundary.

The localities defined all have considerable potential to attract tourists by virtue of their location, environment, use or history.  In order to maximise this potential it will be desirable to undertake initiatives to improve visitor facilities and the setting of the various features, as outlined in Table 20.1 below.  All the listed buildings will be retained and enhanced in accordance with Part I policies B8-10. Where appropriate, grant assistance will be given by the City Council and English Heritage.

Source: Tourism Strategy, 1995/96. City of Sunderland

The seafront is an important environmental and recreational amenity serving the City and beyond. The Plan makes a number of proposals intended to enhance its appearance and function in order that its potential can be fully realised. It is thus vital to ensure that existing commercial and other premises (e.g. shelters, conveniences) are well maintained. At the present time a number of structures within the defined coastal zone (see NA26), mainly on Marine Walk, do not make as positive a contribution as they could, the proposal is thus intended to provide the policy framework for initiatives to secure the necessary improvements.

Implementation may be through a variety of means, including as appropriate, the development control process and the Council's role as freeholder.

The proposal identifies sufficient land to accommodate an estimated 690 new dwellings as at December 1996. Together with the 1,600 dwellings which were been constructed after 1988 on sites big enough to accommodate over 10 dwellings or are committed through previous planning permissions.  Including those under construction, total housing development during the Plan period is likely to be around 2,290 units. This approximates to the requirements of Part I policy H4.  In addition a housing scheme providing over 100 student bedspaces has been constructed at the junction of Fulwell Road and Portobello Lane.

All sites identified utilise existing infrastructure, therefore they will not require major new investment.  The larger sites however are generally in peripheral locations where the existing or proposed environment has the potential to stimulate development interest (e.g. in the vicinity of Fulwell Quarries; at Hylton Dene). The smaller sites are dispersed around the built up area, being infill sites which enable provision of a range of housing to meet localised needs.

Development of the sites allocated will enable North Sunderland to make a positive contribution to meeting the overall requirements of the City thereby enhancing the range of housing types available locally.  It will also help stabilise the population of the western suburbs, diversify the locality's socio-economic structure and generally contribute towards urban regeneration. Provision of a range of size of sites in varying localities will help to ensure a broad base and balance for new development.

This proposal aims to ensure that possible development sites meet the inner urban population's need for open space, community facilities and enhancement of the environment. The boundaries shown on the Proposals Map delineate the areas where redevelopment may be more strictly controlled to meet the above requirements.  They have been drawn to encompass the older residential areas of Fulwell, Roker, Monkwearmouth and Southwick.  These environments lack greenery, tree cover and open space.  They largely comprise pre-1919 dwellings of one or two storeys generally having no gardens.  Post war Council and Housing Association developments have improved the situation in parts of Southwick and Monkwearmouth but the overall quality of the environment is still relatively poor.

As outlined in the introduction the inner urban area of North Sunderland exhibits high levels of unemployment and deprivation which indirectly creates demands for leisure and community facilities which are not presently fully met. Therefore any proposal for new housing within this area will be assessed against the need for sites to be used for environment or community related purposes.  If sites or parts of them have the potential for such uses, negotiations will take place to agree a form of housing development which will allow the development of social and amenity uses to be provided.  Failure to reach such an agreement would normally result in the refusal of planning permission.

The net effect of the proposal will be that, over the Plan period, the intensity of development in these localities will be reduced and the environment improved by the introduction of amenity space and community assets, especially sitting and play facilities.

Improvements in these localities are necessary to ensure the Council's housing stock fulfils an efficient and effective role in meeting the City's housing needs. Additionally, intervention to make the housing stock more attractive can avoid problems related to transient or socially polarised populations, hence facilitating a more balanced and stable community.  Specific measures will be undertaken as  outlined in Table 20.2. Funding is likely to be from mainstream Housing funds and the single regeneration budget.

This proposal relates to those areas which are deemed to have the poorest environmental quality in the City, together with pockets of substandard housing. A number are within the densely developed neighbourhoods where the Council will seek to maximise additional open space and community use from sites to be either developed or redeveloped (see NA8). This proposal aims to improve the environment of these areas, both as an end in itself and as a means of stimulating a climate of confidence to ensure the ongoing viability of the housing stock in the defined localities.  Works could include landscaping of derelict land, traffic calming schemes and tree planting; such areas being tackled in a comprehensive manner.  The potential of these localities for inclusion in a strategy for housing improvement, possibly involving Housing Renewal Areas, may be investigated (see paragraph 5.64). Further details are given in Table 20.3.

This proposal seeks to ensure the enhancement of these two centres which are the main foci of shopping provision in North Sunderland. This will enable them to retain their role in the face of increased competition. The proposal is in accordance with PPG 6, Strategic Guidance, and Part I Policy S2.

Sea Road: This large centre (5,900 sq.m. net floorspace) serves a substantial area of North Sunderland and part of South Tyneside. It has a relatively prosperous image, containing specialist shops and a range of professional and financial services. Most premises are relatively old and small, although there has been some redevelopment. There is some through traffic on Sea Road and a severe lack of facilities for shoppers' car parking, leading to problems in adjacent residential streets. The centre has responded to the challenge posed by freestanding supermarkets elsewhere by a reduction in the amount of convenience shopping and an increase in the level of service activity.  If it is to retain its place in the shopping hierarchy it will be necessary to take advantage of every opportunity to improve its range of facilities for customers. To this end, planning permission will normally be given for new development, redevelopment and changes of use in accordance with policy S2 subject to normal development control requirements being met.  There may be scope for redevelopment at Station Road, subject to land assembly. Consideration will be given to improving pedestrian crossing facilities and wherever possible improvements should be made to the provision of off-street car parking (see NA42).

Southwick Green:  This centre serves a large area of north west Sunderland; its catchment area has a high proportion of non-car owning households. It is conveniently located for public transport and comprises some 6,150 sq.m. net floorspace, supporting a range of retail and community uses.  Although the centre was partially redeveloped and improved during the early 1980's, likely retail developments at Hylton Riverside and Monkwearmouth during the plan period will require this centre to further enhance its attractions in order to maintain its market share. To this end, proposals for new development in accordance with policy S2 will be given favourable consideration, subject to meeting other development control requirements.  The eastern part of the centre, on Southwick Road, appears to be less viable as a shopping area than The Green itself.  A flexible approach to future development in this locality within the general framework of policy S2 may be required if premises are to remain in viable use; consequently a concentration of non-retail uses could result.  Environmental improvements are also desirable and could include traffic calming measures following the removal of through traffic (see NA41). Additional car parking could be provided to the north of The Green; this would further enhance the attractiveness of the centre (NA42). Implementation of the proposal will be through the development control process with remaining environmental works funded by the Council.

This proposal was originally included in the North Area Local Plan. It envisages provision of modern retail facilities, possibly in the form of a small convenience goods supermarket with associated retail units and community facilities, to meet the everyday needs of residents of the adjoining estates. The intended catchment is focused on Town End Farm, Downhill and Hylton Castle estates. These are currently only served by local shopping parades and are some distance from the facilities at Southwick Green. The estates have generally low levels of car ownership and therefore ready access to competitive modern facilities may be regarded as important in accordance with paragraph 6.25 in amplification to policy S3. The site allocated is intended to meet this need; being situated at the junction of Hylton Lane and Washington Road, it is accessible from the area to be served by bus and car as well as on foot and cycle. It is also in proximity to established local facilities including a health centre and area housing/social services office, thereby consolidating the role of the locality as a focal point for the community. It will therefore satisfy Government advice on the desirability of reducing the need to travel and use of cars, as set out in PPG’s 6 and 13.

Any retail development will be subject to it not having an unacceptable effect on existing facilities, especially those at Southwick Green although account will also be taken of the impact on the larger parades within the estates as their retention in some form will provide complementary local facilities. Subject to the requirements of policy S3 it may be necessary to consider the appropriateness of other uses within some of these parades. The nature of the community element of the proposal has yet to be determined but could provide training and job opportunities to the benefit of the surrounding area which suffers from relatively high rates of unemployment. The land is currently in the ownership of the Council; development of the retail element is likely to be by the private sector, whilst the community facilities may be funded by the Council, either alone or in partnership with the developer of the retail floorspace. Given the limited site size, a comprehensive integrated development incorporating both elements would be preferable and consideration will therefore be given to the desirability of preparation of a development brief in order to achieve this.

Land adjacent to Fulwell Infant School is to be used for the replacement of the existing Fulwell Junior School on Sea Road, and possibly the Fulwell Community Centre which adjoins the junior school. Development will be designed and laid out so as to protect the privacy and amenity of adjoining houses. The present junior school was built in 1907 and occupies a sub-standard site.  The proposed site, which meets current Department for Education size requirements and is accessible from the catchment area which it serves, is vested in the Council's Education Committee.  Relocation of the community centre if it is not redeveloped as part of the overall development of the present Junior School site will allow for provision of new facilities on a site which is accessible and in proximity to other community related facilities. Access and egress arrangements in the locality of Ebdon Lane will have to be improved before development can proceed. Although full details have yet to be resolved, this may be achieved by provision of a further access point from Station Road possibly forming part of a one way in/out system with the existing access at Ebdon Lane. The corridor for this exists but the land involved is not in the Council’s ownership at present; the area reserved on the Proposals Map reflects this requirement. The future development of the site of the existing junior school and community centre is considered in Proposal NA18.

There is land available at the Redcar Road site for development of the college which in this part of the City has been run from sites at both Swan Street and Redcar Road. However the Swan Street site was cramped, existing buildings were unsatisfactory and the College's presence there gave rise to environmental problems relating to on-street car parking in the adjoining residential area. Consequently development will be concentrated at the Redcar Road site.  This will enable consolidation on the site, giving the college a stronger local presence and identity, without causing harm to the local environment and enable the College to withdraw from the Swan Street site altogether.

This site, lying south of St. Peter's Church and with a riverside frontage, is to be developed in a series of phases over a ten year period. It will provide some 33,000 sq.m. of accommodation for 8,000 students and will operate jointly with the Chester Road campus in the City Centre. Phase 1, comprising the Business School, lecture hall and related facilities, and Phase 2, the School of Computing and Information Systems, are operational. Remaining phases will provide:

• Phase 3: School of Education
• Phase 4: School of Art and Design

Development of the site will also include a Learning Resource Centre (including a library) and catering facilities; these will be provided on an incremental basis as each phase is constructed. Provision of a conference centre is also being investigated. It is also intended that car parking spaces, acceptable to the local planning authority will be provided in order that problems do not arise on adjacent highways. Buildings of 3-4 storeys will be designed to enhance the setting of St. Peters Church and incorporate new public spaces, including a quayside walk, with an illuminated sculptural feature.

This project is, with the adjacent National Glass Centre (NA5.3), a very important element in the regeneration of the riverside area and will enhance the image of the wider locality.  Account will be taken of the site's prominence and proximity to St. Peter's Church in the design of buildings; a high quality of landscaping will also be sought .  Accessibility to the City Centre and the other major University Campus at Chester Road will be improved by pedestrian and cycling links as well as Metro.  The visual prominence on the riverbank and proximity to St. Peters Church, with its long academic and religious heritage are further factors emphasising the suitability of this location for the use proposed.

Implementation will be undertaken by the University in accordance with its financial resources and the above outline programme.

Reorganisation of the existing Hylton Castle Infant and Junior Schools has released the two Infants School buildings for other purposes.  The present Hylton Castle Community Centre occupies a building adjacent to the existing Junior School; this will be required to create an adequately sized site for the re-organised primary school.  It is therefore proposed to utilise both Infants School buildings for replacement community facilities. These are likely to include a community centre, children’s unit and a crèche, along with an "Aim High" centre. This is one of a number of such centres within the former City Challenge area to provide resources for personal development in leisure, education etc.  Aim High centres are also being developed at both Hylton Red House and Castle View Schools.

The site is partly occupied by a former college of further education, a significant part of whose premises comprise a listed building.  The remainder of the site is used by Grange Park Primary School which lacks on-site playing field facilities, adjacent to which is a community centre.  The college having vacated their premises provides the opportunity to re-arrange uses on the site and facilitate some redevelopment. The listed building will be re-utilised, possibly in connection with provision of specialist housing and/or community facilities. The existing primary school will be re-modelled to include a nursery to replace the present St. Columba’s Nursery and school playing fields will also be provided within the site. Redevelopment should seek to maximise benefits in the form of additional open space and community facilities in accordance with proposal NA8(1).

This extension to the west of the existing cemetery is proposed in order to meet anticipated future needs. The site is owned by the Council, development being likely to be in the latter part of the Plan period. It will be undertaken by the local authority using Public Health Committee funding.

The Quarries are a prominent feature for the most part situated within the Green Belt; the potential for built development is therefore limited.  However, the scale of the Quarries, their location within the Urban Fringe and high accessibility from densely developed built up areas, represent an opportunity to provide major recreational activities which will enhance the environment and afford protection from trespass to both nature conservation interests within it and to agricultural land to the north.  Additional tree planting will be in accordance with proposals for the Great North Forest.

This proposal will realise the potential of Fulwell Quarries to become a recreation area of major importance along with the 'Community North Sports Complex' to the west (NA21), complementing the Silksworth Sports Complex in South Sunderland.  Facilities will be designed and laid out to afford protection to the nature conservation interests/proposed nature reserve within it (NA32.1). The proposals envisage that over 60% of the area of the Quarries will be laid out as landscaped parkland for informal recreation, planted with indigenous species to enhance wildlife. This will be in accordance with proposals for the Great North Forest.

Whilst the Council as landowner will be responsible for initiating the development of the proposals, implementation will be undertaken in conjunction with funding agencies and private sector partners, as appropriate.  In order to provide a context for development, an overall plan for the Quarries and adjacent land to the north will be prepared on the basis of the works completed to date and the outline proposals enumerated in this document.  A Park and Ride facility, in accordance with UDP Policy NA34 may be provided on part of the site.

This proposal, known as the 'Community North Sports Complex', provides a range of recreational facilities in a landscaped setting and covers an extensive area of the northern urban fringe. Situated within the Green Belt between Hylton Lane and Hylton Red House School, it will provide a 'buffer' protecting agricultural land to the north from trespass as well as effecting an environmental improvement.

Sunderland North has the lowest level of provision of playing fields in the four sub-areas. At 0.51ha/1000 population it is appreciably below the City interim standard of 1ha/1000. Whilst proposals for Fulwell Quarries will go some way to meeting the general deficiency, this proposal will substantially boost provision accessible from the western estates. The overall effect will be to enhance access to a wide range of recreational facilities from much of North Sunderland, thereby helping to meet the recreational needs of a large number of people, many of whom do not enjoy high levels of personal mobility and are therefore more likely to need facilities available locally. The scheme will also provide additional parkland.

This scheme is being implemented and provides in total some 55ha of new recreational open space including changing facilities and an appropriate level of parking for cars coaches and cycles. Implementation will continue throughout the plan life. In addition, some development may be undertaken by a private club, using Sports Council funding.