Principle Leisure buys Sunderland site

North-east multiple Principle Leisure, which runs ten pubs and restaurants, has bought Aspire in Sunderland's Low Row for an undisclosed amount.

Management are now working with design experts Collective Design to finalise plans for exactly how they will transform the iconic venue, with the overhaul set to include a new name, a new look and a new food and drink menu.

Preliminary works are expected to begin at the start of February, with a completion date for the transformation set for early April 2010.

Doors at the venue will remain open during this time in an effort to minimise disruption for customers.

Stuart Young, managing director of Principle Leisure Group, said: "Aspire or Baroque as it was previously known, has played a great part in Sunderland's nightlife for the past few years and we are looking forward to re-energising the venue for 2010 and beyond.

"We're keeping full details of our plans under-wraps for now, but I'm sure that people won't be disappointed when further announcements are made very soon."

Principle Leisure currently operates seven venues across the North East, including the Riverbar and Ristorante Fiume in Washington, San Lorenzo in Gosforth and Cramlington and Blue Coyote and Popolo in Newcastle.

The firm also owns an additional three venues in Nottingham and Sheffield, as well as Popolo Events, a subsidary which offers portable bar services for outdoor events and occasions.

Plans are already being put in place to grow the company's portfolio even further throughout 2010.