A FIRM leading the £100m transformation of Sunderland is switching to new offices as it plans move closer to fruition.

Siglion, a joint venture company between Sunderland City Council and Carillion, will be based at the Echo 24 building.

The offices are close to the former Vaux Brewery, which will be one of the first areas developed in an eight-year project.

A business district is planned for the site, which has stood derelict since 1999.

Bosses say the project will also revitalise areas in Seaburn and Chapel Garth.

John Seager, Siglion chief executive, said: “We want the office to be a hub of activity where we can engage with the business community and residents in a very open and visible place, not hidden away in the depths of a building.

“The new offices reflect the type of location we want to create for other businesses in the city centre.”

Siglion is expected to move into the offices in March.

Igloo Regeneration is providing development and asset management services to the joint venture.