Former Sunderland bank to become part of restaurant chain

In September 2021, the Planning Department of Sunderland City Council validated an application for 135 Chester Road in the Barnes district.

This included changing the use of the ground floor from “financial services” to a restaurant and takeout as well as mining equipment and a new storefront.

The unit was previously occupied by Barclays Bank but closed in 2020 due to a change in customer habits to nearby branches and increased use of online and telephone banking services.

During the consultation on the site plans, comments were received from the Council Planning Policy Team.

Council officers said the proposal “would result in more than 10% hot takeaway count in the Chester Road District Center.”

After reviewing the representations, the planning authority of Sunderland City Council approved the plans.

The development includes a change of use, exterior work and the “walling of the windows on the side facade”.

According to planning documents, the future occupant of the space is Piri Piri of the Pepe restaurant chain.

A design and access statement, submitted to planners, adds that the development will have a positive impact on the region.

This includes improving the appearance of the vacant building, securing an internal renovation and opening a business focused on healthy eating.

The statement adds, “The proposed restaurant will provide a family-friendly dining experience with family-friendly seating areas, offering healthy grilling, as part of the new healthy lifestyle, something that is limited in the region and would be very successful. “

Under urban planning conditions, work must start within three years.