Pavilion with UK's largest LED screen to open in Sunderland | The Northern Echo

A new pavilion with one of the UK's largest semi-transparent LED screens is set to open in Sunderland.

The Expo Sunderland Pavilion, located in Keel Square, will be a focal point for Expo Sunderland and will feature a 20m x 5m LED screen.

The pavilion will be a space for a variety of events and experiences, with a programme that will combine arts, culture, music, and innovative technology.

The pavilion is part of Sunderland's initiative to become a smart city and a centre for innovation.

It will be a place for the community to explore new technologies and experience multimedia storytelling.

Councillor Beth Jones, cabinet member for communities, culture, and tourism at Sunderland City Council, said: "The Expo Sunderland Pavilion is a dynamic reflection of our city’s ever-changing landscape.

"This space will bring to life amazing multimedia displays with an array of arts, culture, music and interactive technologies, offering visitors and residents the chance to connect with new ideas that shape the way we live, work and play.

"It’s a space where creativity meets technology, inspiring residents and visitors alike to imagine a brighter future."

The screen will be operational from February 25, 2025, with a programme of interactive experiences, family-friendly activities, and tech content.

There will also be multimedia showcases of global artists’ work, giving local people the chance to see some of the best in digital art from across the world.

The pavilion will also host community events to bring Sunderland residents and visitors together, encouraging collaboration, creativity, and connection.

Kath MacLeod, director of external relations at the University of Sunderland, Expo Sunderland’s headline sponsor, said: "The Expo Sunderland Pavilion is another fantastic addition to the city centre, making Sunderland an even more vibrant place for everyone who lives, works and studies here.

"We’re looking forward to showcasing what’s happening at the university, from celebrating our amazing graduates, to sharing the work of our creative industries students or the results of research projects that are having a real impact on our community."

The pavilion is part of Sunderland’s smart city strategy and demonstrates how digital innovation can shape everyday life.

The project is being led by Sunderland City Council in collaboration with the North East Combined Authority, as part of an investment from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology’s (DSIT) ‘5G Innovation Regions (5GIR)’ programme.

This funding is accelerating advanced wireless connectivity across the North East, with the pavilion standing as an example of how technology and culture can intersect to create shared experiences.

The pavilion will be a space for everyone to explore their ideas, whether they are interested in arts and culture, smart technologies, or the future of living.

To stay updated on the latest events and announcements, visit exposunderland.com/expo-pavilion and follow @ExpoSunderland on Instagram and Facebook.

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