Ultra Sustainable Smart Homes, Riverside Sunderland

A development has begun to take place in Riverside Sunderland city centre. Plans have been submitted and approved for 1000 ultra sustainable smart homes to be built within 4 new neighbourhoods. The first 132 properties have been approved and construction to begin by spring 2021 as a mixture of one, two and three bedroom homes overlooking the city. They will present a new way of city living to the public and provide an example of the 'spacious eco-friendly smart homes' that could be. Designed by architects Proctor&Matthews and MawsonKerr, modern and innovative methods of construction will be demonstrated. 

The aims of Riverside Sunderland are to boost the economy within the city centre brining in 2,500 new residents and 10,000 workers with the aim to be completed by 2023. The homes are designed to have courtyards, terraces and there will also be a community garden. The Kingsley Gardens will be a communal allotment aiming to boost the wellbeing and health of the area, also boosting the activity and physical health. The architects and designers have worked closely with the community to produce housing that 'reflects the rich fabric of the community and the scale of their ambition' (Connolly). 

Alongside the homes there are plans to build a £31 million 'smart' footbridge to better connect the city center and north side of the Wear bringing life back to both sides of the bridge. As well as a £27 million improvement programme focused on the train station, 8 million sq ft modern office space bringing 8-10,000 new jobs, a new art library and community hub aiming to attract 600,000 visitors a year and a few more city developments all with the goal of increasing the economy and popularity in the area. 

Source: https://www.riversidesunderland.com/