First look at 216 new homes planned for Sunderland city centre and how to have your say

Empty land along High Street West forms part of ambitious plans to transform one of Sunderland’s main streets into a mix of homes, as well as spaces for cafés, bars, shops and businesses.

Social impact developer Capital & Centric has unveiled its plans for The Lanes, which would include 216 homes on High Street West on land including the former block which once comprised Argos and Mothercare.

Sunderland City Council announced it was working with Capital & Centric last year, with buildings on High Street West demolished to make way for future development.

The developer says its plans for one and two-bedroom homes in a new community called The Lanes would complement the ongoing construction over the road on the former Vaux site.

This week, Sunderland will have a chance to have its say on the proposals.

A public consultation event will be held between 3pm and 6pm on Thursday, October 8 at Culture House in Keel Square.

Members of the Capital & Centric team will be hosting the drop-in event where people can get a a first look at the proposals, chat to the team and give feedback on proposed plans for The Lanes.

Martin Crews, development director, at Capital & Centric, said:“This development delivers a vibrant and contemporary neighbourhood, integrated with its high street character that adds to the energy already being experienced at Riverside Sunderland.

“We’ve been working up some big ideas for the area, and now we want Sunderland locals to get stuck in. This is their chance to see where we’re heading, chat to the team and tell us what they think before the plans progress.”

A key part of the Riverside Sunderland masterplan is to have more people living and working in the city centre.

Those unable to attend will also be able to view the proposals and have their say online at capitalandcentric.com/project/sunderland

The consultation closes on 21st October 2026