Council outlines plan for city centre businesses

A North East city is aiming to expand opportunities through its commercial business centres.

Sunderland City Council has revealed plans to build on the success of its three business hubs: Evolve, Sunderland Software Centre and Washington Business Centre, which opened between 2006 and 2014. 

Over the years, these centres have supported a wide range of businesses to launch and grow, contributing to the city’s economic activity.

Even during challenging periods, including the pandemic, the centres have maintained an average occupancy rate of 71.7 per cent since 2019. 

The council now intends to partner with a managing agent to oversee operations and ensure the centres continue to contribute effectively to the local economy.

Councillor Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, business and regeneration at Sunderland City Council, said: “We have overseen a number of improvement programmes over recent years to ensure the centres continue to drive economic growth and meet the needs of tomorrow’s businesses and this is the next iteration of that.

“Combined, the three centres have supported the growth of hundreds of businesses over the past two decades and this move will ensure they continue to play a key part helping our city’s businesses realise their potential.

“From games developers to engineering firms, software houses, ecommerce specialists, offshore energy businesses and creative agencies, they have supported the creation of hundreds of jobs while providing a launchpad for so many to start up, innovate and grow and this is about putting the relevant measures in place to ensure they continue building on this success long into the future.”

Recent planning consent allows part of Sunderland Software Centre to return to its original use following the relocation of the Department for Work and Pensions. 

The change will broaden the types of businesses the centre can accommodate, including offices for operational functions and research and development activities, strengthening Sunderland’s position as a hub for enterprise.

Councillor Johnston added: “The successful managing agent will be expected to demonstrate expertise, experience and past success managing similar operations, particularly when it comes to increasing revenue and reducing expenditure.

“While Evolve and Washington Business Centre have strong occupancy rates, Sunderland Software Centre has seen its occupancy rate temporarily fall this past year following the departure of the DWP Job Centre.

“However, now that the centre is reverting in full to its original use, we are hopeful that an experienced managing agent will help attract more businesses to the city, ensuring the centre plays a greater role once again in boosting the city economy.”

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