Sunderland seeks operator for three city sites
The council is searching for a managing agent for Evolve, Sunderland Software Centre, and Washington Business Centre.
Opened in 2006, 2012, and 2014 respectively, the business centres have so-far been operated by the council and have maintained an average occupancy rate of 72% since 2019, even during the Covid pandemic and recent economic headwinds.
The council is now hoping an operator can continue to drive economic growth in the city via the centres, by continuing to help businesses launch and grow.
Sunderland City Council recently received planning consent to change the use of part of the ground, first and second floors at Sunderland Software Centre, following the relocation of the Department for Work and Pensions.
The change of use will see that part of the centre returned to its original use, broadening the scope of businesses it can house.
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Cllr Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for housing, business and regeneration, said: “Combined, the three centres have supported the growth of hundreds of businesses over the past two decades and this move will ensure they continue to play a key part helping our city’s businesses realise their potential.
“From games developers to engineering firms, software houses, ecommerce specialists, offshore energy businesses, and creative agencies, they have supported the creation of hundreds of jobs while providing a launchpad for so many to start up, innovate and grow and this is about putting the relevant measures in place to ensure they continue building on this success long into the future.
“The successful managing agent will be expected to demonstrate expertise, experience and past success managing similar operations, particularly when it comes to increasing revenue and reducing expenditure.
“While Evolve and Washington Business Centre have strong occupancy rates, Sunderland Software Centre has seen its occupancy rate temporarily fall this past year following the departure of the DWP Job Centre.
“However, now that the centre is reverting in full to its original use, we are hopeful that an experienced managing agent will help attract more businesses to the city, ensuring the centre plays a greater role once again in boosting the city economy.”
