Student flat plan for listed old law courts in Sunderland

The three-storey Grade II listed mid-terrace property on John Street, in Sunderland city centre, has been bought by Sendrig Construction.

The 774sq m property, built in 1876, is located within the Sunniside Conservation Area and was marketed as a redevelopment opportunity after its use as a court ended.

Sendrig Construction has secured planning permission from the city council to fully develop and extend the freehold building into a student accommodation facility.

Tony Wordsworth, director at Avison Young, Newcastle, which acted on behalf of HM Courts and Tribunals Service to secure the sale, said: “We are delighted to have secured the conclusion of the sale to Sendrig Construction for our client which should secure the future and continued occupation of such an important and historic building in the heart of Sunderland.”

Michael Lee, director or Sendrig Construction, said: "We are delighted to finally complete our purchase and be the proud new owners of the old law courts in Sunderland.

"A beautiful listed building with many unique features and characteristics which we will bring back to their former glory.

"We have full planning permission to convert the building to a 45 bedroom student accommodation facility and will now actively seek a partner to work with on this fantastic opportunity.”