Sunderland’s iconic Joplings House is to reopen to the public for tours after undergoing a major regeneration project.
The former home of the Joplings department store has been transformed into a state-of-the-art student accommodation by Groovy Students. The company have brought the landmark building into the 21st Century with a fitness suite, Cinema room, as well as conference and study rooms, all designed to rival the features and facilities of five-star hotels.
Coun Stuart Porthouse, Sunderland City Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, said:
“It’s good to see the Joplings building coming back with a new lease of life, and we look forward to its role in this continued regeneration.
“The council would like to see more people living in and working around the city centre as if there are more people then there are opportunities for restaurants, bars, gyms and shops, and we have a more vibrant centre.”
Jopling House also includes retail units and is already attracting interest from several national chains that have yet to venture into Sunderland, potentially bringing shops back into the building eight years after Joplings itself closed.
A spokesperson for the University of Sunderland said, “We welcome any developments which enhance our students’ experience and benefit the City of Sunderland.”
Joplings House will be hosting an open day for prospective students on Thursday, December 6 from 11am to 6pm. Joplings House is located at John Street, Sunderland SR1 1DP. For more information visit https://www.groovystudents.co.uk/property/jopling-house/