Resolution at Sunderland’s Vaux Brewery moves closer

Mountview Securities has submitted plans for the redevelopment of Sunderland Retail Park in a move expected to end a five-year stand-off between supermarket giant Tesco and Sunderland council over plans for the City’s adjacent former Vaux Brewery site.   Mountview Securities’ proposals for the 127,000 sq ft retail park include a supermarket as well as a mixture of shops and improved pedestrian and car access.   Tesco confirmed in March that it was in talks to buy the park from Mountview after it failed to overturn a local authority ruling that banned major retail development on the 16-acre Vaux site.   Tesco bought the Vaux site in 2002.   The UK’s most profitable retailer this week said it remained in talks with the local authority to build a supermarket-anchored scheme on the former Vaux site and would only consider selling the site if Mountview Securities gained planning consent for Sunderland Retail Park.   Urban regeneration company Sunderland Arc has alternative plans for the brewery site comprising around 500,000 sq ft of offices and 1,000 homes. Its plans have been backed by the secretary of state.   A spokesman for Tesco said: “Tesco is closely involved in the Sunderland Retail Park and is keen to take the supermarket site, should planning approval be received.   “Tesco remains in ongoing discussions with both stakeholders and the council over the Vaux Brewery site. It would be a great project and just right for the town.”   Nick Chappell, managing director, Mountview Securities, said: “Submitting the planning application is an important step towards regenerating the Retail Park and securing local jobs.” “At our recent public exhibition, the response was overwhelming in support of the redevelopment, which will offer modern and safe environment alongside vastly improved access for vehicles and pedestrians.” annabel.dixon@rbi.co.uk