Sunderland development stalls over cost of CCTV
A £2m nightclub, bar and restaurant development in Sunderland has been put on hold after a row over security cameras.
London-based St James Capital wants to convert the former post office in West Sunniside into an attraction that would regenerate the city centre's nightlife.
It bought the Edwardian Grade II-listed property, one of Sunderland's biggest and best-known buildings, earlier this year (Caterer, 18 January, page 12).
But planning permission for the development has been delayed following a row with Northumbria Police.
The police want the company to pay £58,000, plus running costs, for two CCTV cameras.
In a report to the council, St James said it needed only one camera and would pay a maximum of £18,000, having originally offered £13,500.
The argument has been referred back to the council and St James has agreed to meet with the authority.
Sunderland City Council's development control officer, Keith Lowes, said: "They are entering into further discussions with the police to see if a compromise can be reached."