Chris BindingLocal Democracy Reporting Service
BBC
George Clarke said he wanted to combine his love of books and restoration architecture for the project
Plans for a new bookshop, cafe and event space led by TV architect George Clarke have been approved.
The Washington-born television presenter wants to convert a Grade II listed property on High Street West, next door to Sonny’s and Pop Recs, in Sunderland.
Sunderland City Council said the development would “encourage footfall to the area, assist in creating a high-quality physical environment and contribute notably to the vibrancy and character of the Sunniside area”.
The application said the project would bring together Clarke’s love of books, restoration architecture and would give him more opportunities to spend time in Sunderland.
The building’s upper floors are set to be transformed into an apartment that would be used by the presenter and his family, as well as being marketed as boutique accommodation for short stays.
Subject to planning permission being granted, the project named Home of Books would open in 2026.
The plans include the “restoration of original shopfront, alterations to openings, reinstatement of Georgian-style joinery, remodelling of rear extension, new windows and new internal staircases”.
The council decision report said it would “add significantly to the evolving cultural and creative neighbourhood in this part of Sunniside”.
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A small cafe and wine bar is also planned beside the bookshop
A small cafe and wine bar is also planned to sit alongside the bookshop, as well as the creation of a new refuse and cycle store.
There are also plans to create a single apartment with four bedrooms across the building’s upper floors, described by Clarke as a “calm, well-designed space, a base for me when I’m in Sunderland, but also somewhere that can host visiting writers, artists, or others contributing to the city’s creative life”.
“Sunderland’s changing in brilliant ways, and I hope Home of Books can play a part in that, rooted in the city’s past, but open to new stories, new ideas and the people who bring them to life,” Clarke added.