Neighbourhoods to make 3,000 jobs

Jun 12 2007 By The Journal

A blueprint to draw new life into a rundown stretch of the riverbank on South Tyneside has been unveiled. The plan has the potential to generate more than 3,000 jobs.

The proposals could create 400 businesses and 2,000 training places in an area of South Shields spanning Harton Staithes, Rekendyke and parts of Laygate.

A new waterfront park - the first in the country to be created entirely from recycled materials - would provide access to a riverside dotted with public spaces, cafes and restaurants.

There would also be five new neighbourhoods, consisting of more than 1,300 homes, including the redevelopment of the former Circatex site and the southern end of Frederick Street in what would be a zero carbon development.

Coun Eddie McAtominey said: "This is a scheme of massive importance to the regeneration of South Shields and the borough as a whole, and I'm delighted to say the vision outlined in this masterplan builds on the local heritage of the former industrial landscape whilst setting proposals for a bright new future.

"We have consulted widely, listening to our communities, council members and organisations like the Rekendyke Partnership, who have all helped to shape this document. The masterplan is employment-led. We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to create something that will have a tremendous economic impact on the area.

"This sets the framework to attract the investment needed to regenerate the site and clearance works are already under way. We have already had considerable interest from potential investors and developers."

The proposals were drawn up by a team appointed by the council and development agency One NorthEast and led by urban design and architecture firm Studio Egret West.

One NorthEast chair Margaret Fay said: "This project will contribute not only to the regeneration of South Tyneside, but also to the renaissance of the Tyne Corridor."