TeamSport has submitted plans to transform the vacant Debenhams unit in Sunderland city centre into a three-storey entertainment centre, with go-kart tracks, arcade and bowling.

The former department store has remained empty since 2021, but could be revitalised with a restaurant and bar alongside a 16-kart central racing track.

“The benefits of the proposal are that it will provide a high quality commercial development in a sustainable location that is accessible by a wide range of transport modes,” said a supporting letter from Team Sport.

“It will have a positive impact upon the vitality and viability of the shopping centre, as a unit which has laid vacant for over five years will be re-occupied. It will have a series of positive economic effects. The proposal will facilitate private sector investment within the area.”

The letter added that bringing the site back into “active and beneficial use” would “support linked trips, increase dwell time, and contribute to the broader regeneration and diversification of Sunderland city centre.”

Sunderland Council is expected to launch public consultation on the plans in the coming months, and if approved, the new venue would become TeamSports’ 39th UK site, creating 40 full-time jobs in the local area.