City centre consultation starts

A number of sites are being proposed for regeneration

People living on Wearside are to have a say on plans aimed at regenerating a city centre.

A six-week consultation over changes to Sunderland City Centre starts on Wednesday.

It will look at reviewing the city's unitary development plan for the central area of the city.

Among the issues which will guide future development are creating up to 10,000 jobs, building 4,500 homes and improving transport links.

Director of development and regeneration Phil Barrett said: "We want people to give us their views on a new planning framework for this part of the city which continues to promote a vibrant city centre and a better quality of life for all of Sunderland's residents."

A number of sites are being proposed for regeneration including the central area along the river corridor from Pallion to Hendon, particularly the former Vaux brewery site.

Others are the former Groves site, which is proposed for a new residential community.

Details about how to have a say on proposals are available at libraries in the city and the Civic Centre.