Plans to Turn Former Sunderland Job Centre into 84 Student Flats to Face Council Vote
Plans to transform the old job centre on John Street in Sunderland city centre into 84 student flats will face a critical vote next week. Sunderland City Council’s Planning and Highways Committee is set to decide on the proposal at a meeting on Tuesday, April 29.
The application, submitted by Ashbrookes Design and Build Ltd, seeks to repurpose and extend the former job centre building across from the former Joplings store. Originally proposed as 78 single-occupancy student studios, the revised plans now aim to deliver 84 units, complete with communal facilities including a gym, lounge, bike storage, and laundry.
Council officers have recommended the scheme for approval, stating it supports the local development strategy for Sunniside and offers high-quality student housing in a central, accessible location.
However, objections have been raised by residents in nearby flats, citing concerns over reduced daylight, privacy, and potential litter issues. Planners argue the impact would be minimal given the city centre context and note that waste storage has been addressed in the proposal.
The project would include controlled service yard access via St Thomas Street, with time-managed slots for deliveries and student arrivals. An updated noise assessment also proposes sound insulation to reduce disruption from nearby nightlife.
If approved, the scheme could become a significant addition to Sunderland’s student accommodation offerings.
For more details, search reference 23/02584/FUL on the Sunderland City Council planning portal.
