Campaigners are hoping to see a former bingo hall on Southwick Green transformed into a new youth, community and heritage hub.
Southwick Ward councillors Cllr Michael Butler and Cllr Kelly Chequer, alongside local campaigner Zoe Chandler, who runs the social enterprise Weights & Cakes CIC gym, are working to breathe new life into the long-derelict site.
The building, which stood for generations and served as a focal point for the community, was destroyed by fire in 2017. Following the loss, the company that owned the site was unable to continue operating and stepped away, leaving the land barren. Local councillors intervened to ensure the site was cleared safely and responsibly.
What followed was a lengthy and complex legal situation regarding ownership of the land. For almost nine years, the site was tied up in ongoing legal wranglings and lacked clear direction. While matters are not yet fully concluded, legal clarifications have provided significantly greater clarity about a route forward.
That clarity has allowed detailed discussions about the future of the site to progress in a constructive and coordinated way, including conversations with government departments – led by the campaigners – for funding which could breathe new life into the site.
Cllr Michael Butler said: “This site has been a blight on the Green for the best part of nine years and was outside the council’s influence. The delay has not been through lack of ambition or effort, but because the land has been subject to an ongoing and complicated legal situation.
“Although there is still work to be done, we now have far more certainty than we have had at any point since 2017. That gives us the opportunity to move plans forward properly and responsibly and would hope to see spades in the ground over the next two years.
“We have already held positive discussions with Sunderland City Council and explored potential funding routes with the government’s youth investment fund. Our focus is on delivering a community hub that works for residents of all ages and backgrounds and stands the test of time.”
Cllr Kelly Chequer added: “Southwick has seen significant regeneration in recent years, including investment at Sheepfolds Stables and the National Esports Arena at Riverside Sunderland, alongside improvements to parks and community safety initiatives.
“We have a strong record of working with partners to secure lasting improvements for our ward. The former bingo hall has been a long and frustrating process, but we remain committed to seeing it brought back into use for the benefit of the community.”
If delivered, it is hoped the new centre will support youth services, heritage projects, community groups and sporting activities, while providing flexible space for learning, recreation and local events.
Zoe Chandler said: “Through running a social enterprise in Southwick, we’ve seen first-hand how important accessible community spaces are. Over the past 15 years many centres have closed, while demand for support and opportunities has only increased.
“This site has stood empty for too long. Now that there is greater clarity around its future, we have a real opportunity to work together and create something positive and lasting for Southwick.”
The campaigners say they will continue working closely with residents, partners and stakeholders to ensure the development reflects the needs and aspirations of the community and delivers long-term value for the area.