Off Topic Sunderland City Centre gutted

Marks and Spencer to close in Sunderland when new store in Washington opens. Very bad news for Sunderland City centre. Gutted.

 

The one in Washington is going to be huge by the sounds of it.
It's going to leave a big void in Sundland city centre though.

 

It is, I picked it about 18 months ago to have a look over the units before they announced planning permission. 3 existing units going into 1

 

Complete with mezzanine floor, so on two levels

 

Aye so basically 3 pre existing stores going to be one huge one.
Massive coup for Washington Galleries tbh mate.
Just need the metro to Washington before I die of old age now!

 

I left Washington in 1990. Great for the area but yes, I believe the Metro there is well overdue.

 

Sure I read it's the biggest town in England or possibly Europe without a rail connection. Might be totally wrong with that mind.

 

Ideal for the north east end of HS3 then

 

I'm sure Sunlun Council will have plans to turn the building into something that is needed and wanted.
Keel Sq gannin onto High St West up to Mackies Corner could be a great area for top class bars, restaurants like they've started in Keel Sq.
Onwards and upwards

 

They might even get tenants in when they have to reduce the Business rates. Free parking at the Galleries I believe!

 

That’s awful news for the old folk who go into Sunderland town centre cos marks and sparkles was well frequented by them

 

What's worse is m&s probably made the decision based on sales over the past 5 years or so. However, with the new eye infirmary and office regeneration, more office worker's will soon be descending into the city centre, the move is going to leave a massive vacuum...

 

As a paid up member of that group the Newcastle branch was and is vastly superior, and along with the other stores close by well worth the metro ticket.

 

What day and time do you usually get the metro back marra... just looking for the balaclava

 

Top Hat and Tails mate

 

Are they taking over the indoor market at the galleries as I seem to remember that all units were going from there

 

Is that combined with fingerless gloves?

 

No they are on the Retail Park side, took over 3 units almost straight ahead of you as you drive in I think. Plus they are putting a mezzanine floor in so two levels

 

Thats my thoughts as well.

 

Really hope the council have plans to revitalise the centre and also influence people to visit. I don’t even think it would be that hard, reduced rates for businesses and cheaper parking would be a start. That’s certainly better than an empty town.

For some inexplicable reason they cancelled the free parking (or are cancelling) at St Mary’s after 3 I believe. Used to take the kids for a wander after school for something to do but don’t bother anymore. They should have extended the free time rather than binning it off.