Plans have been submitted to transform the former Debenhams store in Sunderland into a go-karting centre and entertainment destination. The site has been empty since the retailer ceased trading in May 2021.
Proposal details
Sunderland City Council's planning authority has received a submission for the three-storey premises, which would be redeveloped for use by Team Sport, described in planning documents as "the UK's no1 indoor go karting operator". The scheme includes go-karting circuits, bowling facilities, an amusement arcade, and dining spaces.
Floor plans show a dining quarter, arcade zone, and bowling on the ground floor; a 16-kart circuit and restaurant on the first floor; and a 16-kart circuit with a 'mini racers track' on the second floor.
Economic and regeneration impact
A supporting statement notes the former Debenhams is "no longer suited to modern retail requirements" and its "continued vacancy of such a prominent anchor unit adversely affects footfall, activity and the overall vitality of The Bridges Shopping Centre and the wider city centre". It argues that restoring the site to "active and beneficial use" would "support linked trips, increase dwell time, and contribute to the broader regeneration and diversification of Sunderland city centre". The development is expected to create approximately 40 full-time equivalent jobs.
The statement adds: "The benefits of the proposal are that it will provide a high quality commercial development in a sustainable location that is accessible by a wide range of transport modes. It will have a positive impact upon the vitality and viability of the shopping centre, as a unit which has laid vacant for over five years will be re-occupied. It will have a series of positive economic effects; the proposal will facilitate private sector investment within the area."
Transport and access
A transport statement highlights the site's "highly sustainable location at the heart of Sunderland city centre, with excellent access on foot, by cycle and by public transport". No changes are proposed to existing access arrangements for The Bridges Shopping Centre, and current pedestrian and vehicular access, servicing, and parking provision will continue.
A decision on the application is expected after the consultation period ends. For details, search reference 26/01470/FU4 on Sunderland City Council's planning portal.
