Patrick Melia

Focused on ensuring that opportunities are created for all in a connected, international, rapidly transforming city, Patrick is driven to deliver high-quality services and world-class infrastructure enabling residents to live healthy, happy and financially independent lives, alongside creating the conditions for business to thrive.

Patrick’s current priorities include the major regeneration of the city centre, securing significant private sector investment to deliver ambitious plans at pace, including the Riverside Sunderland development, described as the UK’s most exciting regeneration project.

Based on the commitment that no one and no place will be left behind, Patrick has forged ground-breaking strategic partnerships to establish Sunderland as one of the UK’s Smartest Cities, leading the way in digital innovation to deploy next generation technologies for living, learning, working, culture, travel and all aspects of city life.

Patrick is also leading on the development of a devolution deal for the North East and is a member and chair of a number of national and regional initiatives and boards with the same aim to support people to achieve their ambitions and fulfil their potential.