Former Sunderland glassworks site to be redeveloped to help create 300 jobs

Work is set to commence next year on the transformation of the long-abandoned former glassworks site at Deptford Terrace in Sunderland into a bustling industrial and warehousing park.

Developer Jomast has successfully obtained planning permission from Sunderland City Council for the ambitious project, which aims to breathe new life into the area south of the River Wear, idle for over ten years.

The Stockton-based company is poised to construct 165,000 sqft of commercial space, comprising six warehouse and industrial units, seven trade counter units, and a drive-through coffee shop. The redevelopment is envisioned as a significant commercial and employment hub, drawing both regional and national trade counter businesses, as well as sizeable warehousing operators who stand to gain from the site's prime location.

In its initial application submitted in 2022, Jomast projected that the development could catalyse the creation of upwards of 300 jobs within the businesses that take up residence there. The firm is actively engaging with Sunderland City Council's business team and Invest North East England to promote the site and is reportedly in discussions with potential tenants.

Adam Hearld, Development Director at Jomast Developments, said: "We're delighted to receive the go ahead for the development of the site. The approval is a positive step towards delivering much-needed industrial space in the region that supports Sunderland's long-term strategic economic goals."

Jomast's ambitious £20m project is lauded for incorporating sustainability initiatives, alongside a significant six-figure sum designated to enhance local biodiversity. Robert Dibden, the planning director at Lichfields which consults for Jomast, said: "This scheme offers a unique opportunity to bring inward investment into Sunderland, turning a long-disused brownfield site into a modern, sustainable industrial complex. The development will create a vibrant hub for businesses, offering state-of-the-art facilities that align with the needs of the local economy. Benefiting from the exceptional connectivity provided by the Sunderland Strategic Transport Corridor, the site is perfectly positioned to attract a range of industries, boosting local employment opportunities and driving economic growth in the region.", reports Business Live.