A former Sunderland café could be transformed into a tattoo shop under new proposals submitted to council planning bosses.

Earlier in July, 2022, Sunderland City Council’s planning department validated a planning application for 15 Roker Baths Road in the St Peter’s ward.

The business unit was previously used as a café but according to planning documents, is currently vacant.

Read more: North East weather LIVE: Met Office issues red alert for extreme heat

Under new plans, the site could be converted into a tattoo studio with three full-time employees.

Applicants are listed in planning documents as ‘Studio 23’ and proposed floor plans set out main ‘shop floor’ areas as well as toilet, staff and storage facilities.

The business unit at 15 Roker Baths Road was previously known as the Roker Pie Shop, which was a match day institution in the days of Roker Park.

In recent years, the site was transformed into café Sarnies & Sundaes however this has now closed with the building being put up for sale.

A decision on the tattoo shop planning application is expected to be made by early-September, 2022 , following a period of council consultation.

For more information on the plan or to track its progress, visit Sunderland City Council’s online planning portal and search reference: 22/01310/FUL

Keep up to date with all the latest news on our website, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

You can also follow our dedicated County Durham Facebook page for all the latest in the area by clicking here.

For all the top news updates from right across the region straight to your inbox, sign up to our newsletter here.

Have you got a story for us? Contact our newsdesk on newsdesk@nne.co.uk or contact 01325 505054