I was delighted to visit the site of Sunderland’s new Fire Station Auditorium today – where work has just started on building an amazing cultural venue for the city.

This project is led by Sunderland Music, Arts and Culture Trust and, once the new auditorium opens in 2021, it will hold 450 people seated or up to 800 standing.

I can’t wait to see this inspirational venue completed. It will be a game-changer in terms of the culture offered by our city and I’m sure it will be a fantastic asset for many generations to come.