New Director for Sunniside Team

A new director has been appointed to lead a multi-million pound scheme to revive an historic part of Sunderland City Centre.
Ben Hall will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Sunniside, which is currently undergoing a £130 million makeover. He has joined Sunniside Partnership from his last post as project manager at Sunderland arc and was latterly area manager with Turner & Townsend Project Management.

The Partnership was established in October 2003 by Sunderland City Council, Sunderland arc, English Partnerships and One NorthEast to oversee the regeneration of Sunniside. It also receives backing from TyneWear Partnership.

Plans are already well under way to transform the unique quarter with beautiful historic buildings bustling with new businesses. A stunning £2 million garden centrepiece is set to officially open in the Spring and an exciting arts and business venture called thePlace is due to be completed early next year.

As well as investment in that building a TyneWear Partnership supported property grant scheme has also ensured a Grade II listed former Embassy is now a £500k Italian restaurant, Angelos.

Mr Hall, 32, of Darlington, said: “I am deeply fortunate to be given this opportunity and play a major part in such an exciting project.
“Already there is so much to be proud of in Sunniside and everyday sees another positive change. There is still a lot to do but the transformation is already clear to see.”

Councillor Bob Symonds, Chair of the Sunniside Partnership and Leader of City of Sunderland Council said: “We are delighted to welcome Ben on board. His experience and extensive knowledge on regeneration in Sunderland made him an ideal choice for this key position.

“He will play a vital role in realising the creation of this outstanding scheme and in driving the revival and future success of Sunniside.”
Ben will be based in the Sunniside Partnership’s offices on High Street West and can be contacted on 0191 567 4822.