Our exclusive images show the radical overhaul lined up for the battered town centre.

Major changes are planned to revamp the 1960s centre, including the arrival of a new supermarket, offices, housing and community facilities.

The scheme has been drawn up by South Tyneside Council, in partnership with Spenhill, the regeneration subsidiary of retail giant Tesco, together with Bellway Homes, Gentoo and Napper Architects.

Many residents who visited an exhibition on the plans held at Mountbatten Medical Centre in the town centre went away impressed.

Michael Kissman of Spenhill said "We were incredibly pleased with the positive reaction we received from local people.

"The development will bring new opportunities for Hebburn, and it is encouraging to have local people so keen to see improvements to their town centre.

"We have started a dialogue with residents of Hebburn that will continue throughout the development process."

The revamp would include the demolition of 1960s properties and the creation of new housing, plus better community and transport links.

Coun Eddie McAtominey, the council's lead member for jobs, enterprise and regeneration, said: "This exhibition provided a chance to showcase the ambitious vision we have for Hebburn and the creation of the outstanding town centre that residents deserve.

"The exhibition generated some very useful feedback, which we and Spenhill will be considering, alongside further involvement with local people, as the plans are developed."