Eight creative businesses have made a landmark Sunderland building their home following the second part of a major redevelopment scheme.
The Grade II-listed, Victorian era Mackie’s Corner building has opened ‘The Co.llective’ – 16 creative workspace units ranging in size from 90 sq ft to 600 sq ft and breakout spaces. A range of businesses from creative agencies to alternative wedding dress suppliers have taken up residency in the property on the corner of Bridge Street and High Street West.
Alex Kirtley, managing director of developer, Kirtley Co, said: “We are thrilled to unveil The Co.llective and welcome these remarkable businesses as our inaugural occupants. The project not only rejuvenates a cherished historical site but also ignites a new era of creativity, community, and commerce right at the heart of Sunderland city centre. We have now completed our second batch of lettings, including The Dome, Chambers & two more rooms from The Co.llective tenants will be announced soon. Spaces are now limited.”
Read more: Tech sector support bodies join forces to deliver new programme for start-ups Read more: Tyneside tech firm Test Driven Solutions launches bases in Canada and Poland Among the businesses now operating from the space are the nail and tattoo outfit Skullen Collective; creative design agency, RGB Media; social media marketing agency, The Social Type; cosmetics clinic, Aesthetics by Hannah; art studio, The Art Room; wedding dress supplier, Soul Bride; yoga and pilates practice, Studio by YOTN, and media production outfit Sensel Studio.
Chris Simcock, founding director of Sensel Studio, said: “We wanted a cool, rustic, boujee space. We didn’t want a corporate office space with white light, so Mackie’s Corner was a breath of fresh air. It has a real sense of history, and we loved the idea of a collective and all the neighbouring studios we’ve met are of a similar mindset. They’re creative. It feels like a collective of creative free spirits but all who are keen to grow their interests commercially and give back to the community.”
Nail, tattoo and piercing specialist Skullen Collective is one of the eight businesses to have moved into the Mackie’s Corner units. (Image: Elliot Nichol Photo.) Hannah Dodds of Aesthetics by Hannah, said: “Moving into the Co.llective has been nothing but a smooth transition. The team at Kirtley Co have taken the time to learn and understand the needs of Aesthetics by Hannah and have been very accommodating with alterations to the Clinic to ensure safety and hygiene standards are met within the business.
“Being a local girl watching the ongoing developments in Sunderland is really exciting and something I want to be involved in. I always knew that I wanted to open a clinic in Sunderland but never found the right location. Being in the heart of the city means a lot to me, it’s not only super accessible for all clients but it’s great to be in the centre amongst the hustle and bustle.”
Coun Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for Dynamic City, said: “The continued transformation of Mackie’s Corner into a vibrant hub for local businesses is a testament to Sunderland’s exciting future. The addition of The Co.llective and the innovative businesses it houses underscores our commitment to attracting more businesses into the heart of Sunderland city centre and the key role the Business Investment Team do in enabling that.”
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