Sunderland pub made famous by Sunderland ’Til I Die could become new apart-hotel
A former Sunderland pub that featured in Netflix’s Sunderland ’Til I Die could soon be transformed into a 22-room apart-hotel aimed at contractors, tourists and short-term business visitors.
A planning application has been submitted to Sunderland City Council seeking permission to convert The Blue House, located between Corporation Road and Commercial Road in Hendon. The site is widely recognised for its mural of football legend Raich Carter, painted by artist Frank Styles and used as a backdrop in scenes from the popular documentary series.
22 short-stay rooms and no exterior changes planned
The plans, lodged by Sunderland City Estates Ltd, outline a partial change of use from public house to apart-hotel. Supporting documents reveal that the building’s ground floor, currently containing old bar areas and kitchens, would be reconfigured, while additional bedrooms, storage spaces, bathrooms, a laundry room and an on-site management office would be created throughout the building.
Developers say the proposal would deliver “high-quality visitor accommodation” without altering the building’s exterior, ensuring the street’s character remains intact. A new cycle and refuse storage area is included within the existing rear yard.
A boost for the local visitor economy
According to the design and access statement, the accommodation would be self-contained, offering flexible stays to meet demand from contractors and short-term visitors. Developers argue that the project supports Sunderland’s growing visitor economy and contributes to wider regeneration efforts.
The application also notes that no other suitable buildings of similar scale were available in the city, with many alternative units being retail or office spaces unsuitable for conversion.
Professional oversight and guest controls
A management plan submitted with the scheme states that the apart-hotel would operate with a mix of on-site and remotely monitored management, depending on occupancy. Cleaning, maintenance and security would be carried out by contracted hospitality staff.
Strict controls are proposed, including:
No long-term residents
A booking-only system (no walk-ins when full)
CCTV monitoring
Clear rules on behaviour and anti-social conduct
Contact details for management provided to neighbours
The plan emphasises that the site will be run “professionally with controls in place to ensure safety, tidiness and minimal impact on neighbours”.
Decision expected early 2026
The council is now carrying out a consultation before making a decision. According to the planning portal, a verdict is expected by January 16, 2026.
The application can be viewed by searching reference 25/02662/FUL on Sunderland City Council’s planning portal.