A planning application has been submitted to redevelop Sunderland Eye Infirmary.

Turner & Townsend has been appointed to develop an outline business case for the renewal of the hospital’s existing facilities and is providing project management, cost management, and principal design services in conjunction with Sunderland City Council and South Tyneside & Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust.

The existing building was built in 1937 and the plans will ensure the regionally and nationally-respected facility can continue to provide leading ophthalmic services for the local population.

The multi-disciplinary appointment, under the NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) framework, covers a comprehensive scope across the anticipated lifecycle of the programme, including the development of business cases, design, tendering and contract, construction and equipment, technical commissioning handover, post completion, operational commissioning, and project evaluation.

The eye hospital is the latest development planned for Riverside Sunderland, which has been backed by Legal & General and will create a dynamic mixed-use urban quarter in the heart of the city centre.