Pop-up parks, public WiFi and street food stalls among plans to give South Tyneside a post-pandemic boost

South Tyneside Council said a series of environmental improvements are planned to make high streets and neighbourhood shops look ‘cleaner, brighter and more inviting’ to shoppers, diners and visitors.

Pop-up green spaces with portable tables and chairs, which can be moved around the borough, and street food stalls, are among plans to help support businesses and give the visitor economy a boost.

New planters, flower baskets, banners, public noticeboards and deep street cleans are also planned.

And a public WiFi network will also be piloted in South Shields town centre later this year.

The council has received funding from the Government’s Welcome Back Fund, which is an extension of the Reopening the High Streets Safely Fund, and chiefs say it will be used to ensure a safe, attractive trading environment.

Promotional lamppost banners featuring the Shop Safe, Shop Local branding, as well as advertising the Market, have been put up across the borough.

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said the aim was to provide a 'real buzz’ to help South Tyneside bounce back.

“People might have already seen the informative posters and banners on lampposts which are providing a real splash of colour around the borough,” she said.

“That is just the start. We have plans to do more to enhance our towns and villages to ensure they are looking their best for both residents and visitors.

“The initiative forms part of wider work to support the Borough's recovery from the pandemic, welcoming people back to enjoy our shops, cafes, bars and restaurants as well as the attractions and facilities that people value.”

She added: “Our local traders were a lifeline during the worst of the pandemic, providing food and other essential items, and now we’re asking people to support them on the road to recovery.

“We want the borough to thrive past covid and we are working hard to create a real buzz.

“It reflects our pride in South Tyneside and our commitment to our core priority of supporting town centres, high streets, villages and hospitality.”

The plans will be supported by a marketing and public information campaign.

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