Final phase of former Dewhirst site regeneration completes
UK Land Estates has completed two drive-thru units for Greggs and Starbucks, bringing the redevelopment of the edge-of-city retail scheme to a close.
The latest phase sits alongside previously completed units occupied by Wickes, Aldi, and KFC, completing the transformation of the long-vacant former industrial site.
The Dewhirst clothing manufacturing business was one of Sunderland’s largest employers during the 20th century, with operations in the city dating back to the 19th century.
Following the closure of its Leechmere site in 2002 and the Pennywell factory in 2003, the site remained largely unused for almost two decades.
Planning permission for the redevelopment was granted in 2022, paving the way for the creation of a new retail destination on the edge of Sunderland city centre.
Tim Witty, development director at UK Land Estates, said: “We’ve seen a real surge in demand for well-connected, out-of-town retail parks over recent years and the redevelopment of the former Dewhirst site is a prime example of this.
“As soon as we were granted planning permission in 2022, we were inundated with queries from parties looking to capitalise on the site’s prime location, so it is fantastic to finally see it complete and bearing fruit.
“In Wickes, KFC, Aldi, Starbucks, and Greggs we have been able to attract five national and global brands to the site, creating dozens of jobs for local people while providing a major lift to the city’s economy.
“It has been a fantastic project to be involved in and I’m sure as we look ahead to 2026, there will be yet more sites to follow as we seek to capitalise on the seemingly increasing popularity of the North East as a great place to invest and do business.”
