Sunderland City Council has appointed Vistry Group as development partner for the Sheepfolds scheme.
The residential-led, mixed-use community, which will comprise circa 600 new homes, will be the most populous neighbourhood within the Riverside Sunderland regeneration project.
Works will commence on site later this year and act as a catalyst for the regeneration of the wider Sheepfolds neighbourhood.
The council appointed Avison Young in April 2024 to identify potential development partners that could deliver the ambitious regeneration scheme.
Kevin Johnston, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and business at Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with Avison Young on the search for a development partner for the Sheepfolds neighbourhood. The team’s valuable expertise and experience in this sector has led to us finding a partner that we’re confident will deliver the council’s vision for a vibrant new community, with high quality new homes and a variety of supporting community facilities.
“Sheepfolds will showcase the importance of the public and private sector working together to regenerate brownfield land, continuing the transformation of the city, and creating a destination at Riverside Sunderland where people want to live, work and play.”
Mark McKelvey, director at Avison Young, added: “The Sheepfolds neighbourhood is a landmark regeneration project, with a mix of housing types and tenures to support a diverse community. Sunderland City Council had a specific set of requirements for its development partner on this project, and we are delighted to see that Vistry Group has been appointed.
“Through the regeneration of Sheepfolds, the council is seeking to address existing housing market shortages, stimulate further private sector investment, accelerate housing delivery, increase the city centre population, and drive social and economic growth. This is set to be a really exciting scheme, and we look forward to seeing the first homes being delivered.”
