Sunderland entrepreneur unveils next phase of her vision for former bank

Nicola Vallely, owner of Vallelys and Trash NV

Entrepreneur Nicola Vallely is embarking on the next phase of her transformation of a former Sunderland high street bank, with plans to turn the upper floor into a new beauty and wellbeing hub. The development continues Nicola’s reinvention of the old Lloyd’s Bank building on Sea Road, Fulwell, which she has already brought back to […]

British Arena set to wow Sunderland as interest grows for multi-use venue

Architects impression of British Arena in Sunderland

The name and exclusive mockup images of the upcoming 15,000 sq.ft esports arena in Sunderland have been revealed.  The multi-use British Arena – first announced last summer as the Gaming and Esports Arena – will be able to host live music events, comedy nights, private bookings, broadcasts, games industry, esports events, sports events, premier match […]

Sunderland spotlighted in property awards

Sunderland’s regeneration has been recognised by a prestigious property awards programme, with city developments and deals shortlisted for no fewer than seven awards. A huge programme of transformation is under way across Sunderland, and it has caught the attention of the judges of the Insider North East Property Awards. Hillthorn Business Park and the new […]

Screen dream as studio goes ahead

Crown Woeks Studios site in Sunderland

Sunderland will become home to one of the biggest film studios in the North East of England, as Mayor Kim McGuinness is set to commit more than £38m to supercharge Crown Works Studios delivery. The much-anticipated blockbuster development could begin construction in July, with completion by the end of next year. Crown Works Growth Zone […]

TK Maxx unveils relocation in Sunderland

TK Maxx at the Bridges, Sunderland

 TK Maxx is set to open the doors to its new and improved store in a prime central location within The Bridges Shopping Centre.  Conveniently located a short distance from its previous residence, shoppers can expect the same great experience from TK Maxx – enjoying everything from fashion for the entire family, to accessories, and […]

Progress update on Sunderland’s New Eye Hospital as opening nears

Sunderland's new eye hospital

Construction of Sunderland’s new Eye Hospital continues at pace with the landmark facility on track to open in summer 2026. In recent weeks, the project has reached several major milestones. External hoardings have now been removed, offering the public their first full view of the new hospital taking shape in the city centre. With the […]

Lavish new wine bar launched at Sheepfolds Stables

Wine Bar at Sheepfolds Stables

A stylish new wine bar has opened at Sheepfolds Stables, one of the North East’s most popular food, drink, events and entertainment destinations.   Named ‘The Wine Bar’, the new venture will serve a wide range of hand-picked, high-quality wines, premium champagnes, cocktails, mocktails and signature drinks, and is expected to be popular with new and […]

Care specialist secures industry accolade

Angela Brown from Training in Care

A North East training business has scooped a prestigious industry award for its work helping to tackle the nation’s social care crisis.  Training in Care was recognised as the Best Care Sector Training Provider at the 2025 Northern Enterprise Awards last month.  The award acknowledged the organisation’s ‘unwavering commitment to delivering training that makes a […]

Sunderland Cocktail Week ready to mix it up

Two people enjoying cocktails at The Botanist

The most depressing time of year is set to get some much needed cheer, thanks to the return of Sunderland Cocktail Week. The aftermath of the indulgence of the festive season makes January traditionally a time when everyone wants to feel brighter. Sunderland will be helping adults to enjoy everything the city has to offer […]

How this student is helping create a sustainable future in tourism

University of Sunderland graduate Lisa Hartshorn

A graduate from the University of Sunderland is helping create a sustainable future after securing a role in the emerging green tourism sector. Throughout her studies, Laura Hartshorn has had a keen interest in conservation and sustainability after witnessing the positive impact that sustainable tourism can have while working for a sea turtle conservation charity […]