Vistry to deliver ‘transformational’ scheme

A city centre regeneration scheme is gaining momentum with plans for a new neighbourhood designed to boost residents, jobs and community life.

Homebuilder Vistry Group has been named preferred developer for the Sheepfolds neighbourhood, at Riverside Sunderland, a scheme that will add up to 600 new homes alongside commercial and community spaces. 

It follows Vistry North East’s ongoing delivery of 250 homes at West Park Quarter on the site of the former Civic Centre, under its Linden Homes brand.

Sheepfolds, the most populous of the four residential communities being created at Riverside Sunderland, will feature townhouses, duplexes and apartments designed by North East architects FaulknerBrowns, plus a new mobility hub with electric vehicle charging and cycle storage. 

Supported by £4.8 million from the Brownfield Housing Fund, which is being administered by the North East Combined Authority, the first phase will begin in early 2026 after infrastructure works.

Sean Egan, regional managing director of Vistry North East, said: “Sheepfolds is a transformational regeneration opportunity for Sunderland and we are very pleased to be working in partnership with the city council for the second time to deliver its ambitious and exciting vision for this thriving new neighbourhood.”

Riverside Sunderland, recently awarded Best Place in Progress, is transforming 32 hectares of brownfield land into a thriving riverside community with homes, offices, parks and leisure venues.

Once complete, it is set to create 10,000 jobs and become home to 2500 residents.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, said: “We are delighted Vistry North East has been appointed to lead on the development of the Sheepfolds neighbourhood.

“This transformational development will provide access to high-quality sustainable new homes, with an unrivalled and aspirational quality of life, while providing a major boost to the city centre economy.

“It is yet another major step forward for Riverside Sunderland.”

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