Active Families charity faces delays on Sunderland community centre project

A charity claims Sunderland City Council has stalled plans to transform Southwick Community Centre into a soft play and cafe. Active Families secured £500,000 for the project but has been unable to begin work since being awarded the building in April. The council cited a review of its community asset policy for the delay. The charity believes some councillors want to re-tender the building, restricting bids to local organizations. The council stated the pause is for policy clarity and will update the charity after the review.