Ashbrookes secures planning approval for 4.2m Sunderland student accommodation development
Ashbrookes has secured planning permission for the transformation of a former office building in Sunderland city centre into a high-quality, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme.
The £4.2 million development, located on John Street in the Sunniside area of the city, will see the conversion of the 1,700 sq m building, together with the addition of two new floors, into 84 self-contained student studio apartments alongside a gym, modern communal spaces and a ground floor commercial unit.
The retail space will be occupied by Ashbrookes’ sister company, Ashbrookes Estate Agents, bringing new employment to the area.
Formerly home to the Department for Work and Pensions, the building has been vacant since the Job Centre’s relocation. Ashbrookes has worked closely with Sunderland City Council to ensure the design complements the wider Sunniside Masterplan, which aims to conserve and regenerate the historic area through sensitive development.
Construction is due to begin shortly, with a principal contractor appointment imminent. Internal pre-construction works have already commenced. Ashbrookes will retain ownership of the scheme as part of its ongoing strategy to develop and operate high-quality student accommodation across the North East, adding to its growing portfolio of assets in locations such as Tees Valley.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the development will incorporate low-energy heating and power systems, alongside sustainable materials and environmentally responsible construction methods.
The project addresses the city’s acute shortage of purpose-built student accommodation, with current supply meeting only around 20% of existing demand. Demand is expected to increase, in line with national UCAS application data forecasting continued growth in undergraduate & postgraduate numbers.
Arif Mushtaq, CEO of Ashbrookes Group, said: “We are delighted to receive planning approval from Sunderland City Council and have greatly valued their support in helping us shape a scheme that reflects the ambition and heritage of the Sunniside area.
“This development not only helps tackle the pressing shortage of student accommodation in the city but also plays a part in the ongoing regeneration of the city centre. By introducing modern, energy-efficient student living and commercial space, we’re proud to be contributing to Sunderland’s economic and educational future.”
To read more about the John Street, Sunderland project click here
30th April 2025