Sunderland development proposed

Thornfield Properties has been appointed to take charge of major new regeneration plans in Sunderland.

An official development agreement for the retail-led commercial property project, which could be worth up to £180 million and create 1,700 jobs, has been signed by the firm and regeneration body Sunderland arc.

Under the plans, new shops and leisure facilities will be created in the city centre, alongside a car park and general street improvements.

Councillor Paul Watson, leader of the city's council, said the development would be "crucial" to the local area.

He added: "We are delighted to have such a prestigious developer on board taking an important stake in the future of the city."

The Northern Echo recently revealed that a new £30 million office building has just been opened by Caddick Group at a business park close to Newcastle.