Transforming Holy Trinity Sunderland into a community-led events space

A black outline of a church on a grey background.

Heritage Grants

Date awarded
Location
Hendon
Local Authority
Sunderland
Applicant
The Churches Conservation Trust
Award Given
£3783700
The Churches Conservation Trust has revitalised a historic church, turning it into a vibrant venue for culture, heritage and learning known as Seventeen Nineteen.

The Grade I listed Georgian building, formerly known as Holy Trinity Sunderland, represents over 300 years’ of heritage for the city. It is well-known not only as a place of worship, but as the Town Hall and Magistrate’s Court.

The venue also holds the title as the city’s first-ever public library and fire service.

Giving historic spaces a new lease of life

The Churches Conservation Trust took on the heritage site in 2015 as one of their many projects to protect churches at risk across the UK. To date, the charity has supported the regeneration of over 350 buildings. 

With nearly £3.8million of funding from the Heritage Fund, the Trust has secured the safeguarding of the church’s fabric. Furthermore, its history will live on through a wide-ranging programme of activities, including the Love Sunderland Heritage exhibition.

Benefiting the community and the economy

Community is at the heart of this project as the launch of Seventeen Nineteen offers the opportunity for new jobs and training. Hosting events and markets also means a positive economic impact for the city. 

Seventeen Nineteen will bring a new generation of visitors to the historic building and be a hub for bringing people together. You can explore their upcoming events and news on their website.
 

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