Time running out to raise Glass cash

CAMPAIGNERS have called for support from Sunderland City Council and the wider public to help explore options to save the National Glass Centre.

- NIC MARKO

The plea comes after a public meeting at Sunderland City Hall attended by more than 100 people - including party-wide city councillors and council leader Michael Mordey.

The National Glass Centre (NGC) is due to close next July, with owners the University of Sunderland citing unaffordable repair costs.

Campaigners have called for alternative ownership options to be looked at and for Sunderland City Council to help lobby the university to pause the planned demolition.

Campaign chair Carolyn Basing said: "It's clear that the relationship between the university and the NGC is at an end, but that doesn't mean the NGC has to close.

"We fully accept the building needs work, but the business model also needs a lot of work.

"We are asking Sunderland City Council to use their influence to get the university to start negotiating.