New artist images have revealed how the proposed Glassworks: Sunderland could look if planning permission is granted for a new glassmaking hub in the city centre.
National Glass Centre closes
The city's National Glass Centre, which campaigners fought to save, is closing at the end of this month after its owner, the University of Sunderland, found it needed multi-million pound repairs. The centre will bow out with two exhibitions: The Graduates, running until July 30, and Conclusion, featuring work by the university's final MA glass and ceramics students, closing on July 31. The closure ends almost three decades of creativity at the venue.
New home for glassmaking
However, plans are progressing for a new Sunderland home for glassmaking. Sunderland City Council’s cabinet previously approved the preservation of an old antiques warehouse in Sunniside for Sunderland Culture's transformation into a glassmaking hub. The council has now received a planning application for the former Peter Smith Antiques building, which would create a glassmaking and ceramics hub with specialist facilities for artists and makers, as well as workspaces, learning opportunities, and business support.
The architect-designed images, part of the planning application, show how the building – dating back to the 19th century and originally used by Durham and Sunderland County Institute for the Blind – would retain exposed brick, stone staircases, and other original features. Studios on the upper floors appear light and airy, with plans for public classes and activities on the ground and first floors. The scheme is energy-efficient and 'de-carbonising', with an on-site sub-station and heat from glassmaking used to warm other areas.
Not a replacement
Tom Billington, chairman of Sunderland Culture, said: “Glassworks is a reimagined, future-facing, community-driven centre of excellence that will safeguard world-class glassmaking in the city.” He noted it is not a replacement for the National Glass Centre, lacking a café or galleries, but would play a critical role in retaining skills, talent, and production capacity.
The council's planning committee is expected to decide on the application in early autumn. Alongside a £5 million grant from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Sunderland Culture is fundraising to match that sum, aiming to open Glassworks: Sunderland in 2028.
