As lead consultant and project manager for the Port of Sunderland regeneration, Halcrow is helping to transform the 110ha estate into a major commercial and industrial park.
The site is set to provide almost 100,000m² of industrial floor space, 38,000m² of office space and 19,000m² of mixed-use development
At its inception in 2000, the site was the largest brownfield regeneration project in the UK. When complete, it help to enhance the city of Sunderland, both as a commercial port and in general terms.
The project will generate 3,000 new jobs, as well as providing 150 waterside apartments and water-based leisure facilities, alongside an efficient, modern port.
Halcrow’s commission included:
- detailed feasibility studies and master planning
- market and economic studies
- engineering studies and design work
- geotechnical, contaminated land and bathymetric surveys and investigations
- environmental impact and transport assessments
- sustainability and health impact appraisals
- cost planning
- preparing a port development plan
- coordinating and managing a two-stage public consultation
A key challenge was the consolidation and continued operation of the port, so that land could be freed up for development. This involved detailed planning to optimise land use and operational efficiency, a comprehensive business viability study of the port, and strategic guidance on business models for future operation and management.
Our study enabled the city council to procure a private-sector port operator partner.
The project is central to the objectives of the council and urban regeneration company Sunderland arc. Their vision is to change the use and image of the site and surrounding area, linking it back to the city. The hope is to open up the area to more people and provide a catalyst for improvements in neighbouring areas.