Work under way to breathe new life into factory site empty for 20 years

Regeneration of a well-known Sunderland site is moving into its final phase.

- by Katy Wheeler

Tim Witty, Development Director, UK Land Estates; Carl Neasham-Gilbert, Project Manager, STP Construction, Brandon Bailey, Project Director, UK Land Estates.

Preparatory works have begun ahead of the development of drive-thru units for Greggs and Starbucks on the former Dewhirst site at Pennywell Industrial Estate.

Led by UK Land Estates, which owns the seven-acre site, STP Construction has been appointed as main contractor on the development and began work on the scheme this month.

The development marks the final phase of the regeneration of the former Dewhirst site, with Aldi, Wickes and KFC having already moved to the site.

Dewhirst, a clothing manufacturer with roots dating back to the 19th century, had a significant presence in Sunderland, particularly in the late 20th century.