Have your say on plans for Washington F-Pit Museum

Last year, the city council asked residents what they would like to see from plans to regenerate the park and museum, to enhance the heritage offer and visitor experience of the site.

Now, draft plans have been drawn up for improvements to the Park and a new Heritage Centre and Café.

An outline masterplan has been prepared for Albany Park that reflects residents' desire to see improvements to the natural environment, safety and facilities, including a secure play park for younger children and recreational activities for older children, adults and families.

Responses to last year's consultation have also helped to shape initial proposals to develop the F Pit site with a good quality cafe and heritage visitor centre, including toilet facilities and exhibition space to promote the area's rich coal mining history.

The draft regeneration plans can be viewed on the Council's Let's Talk F Pit and Albany Park page and residents can share their thoughts on the proposals to help the development of more detailed plans later this year. Any comments should be provided by end of May 2023 at Let's Talk F-Pit and Albany Park - Sunderland City Council

Councillor Linda Williams, cabinet member for vibrant city and Washington Central ward councillor, said: "The F-Pit is an important part of Washington's heritage, we want to protect its future and realise the potential of the wider Albany Park site with these exciting new plans. 

"As a council we are committed to bringing forward key regeneration projects across the city and the regeneration of the F-Pit and Albany Park is a chance for us to showcase Washington's heritage while improving the experience of both residents and visitors in the area. We are thankful to our residents for helping to shape these emerging plans and encourage them to continue to stay involved as more detailed plans progress."

The Grade II listed F-Pit Museum is one of only 10 Scheduled Ancient Monuments in Sunderland and is an iconic landmark that showcases the history of coal mining in the region. Albany Park was formed from land reclaimed from the former New Washington Colliery and is now an important local recreational space.