Multi-million-pound South Shields regeneration project enters its final phase
Work on a major riverside regeneration project is entering its final stages.
The multi-million-pound riverside regeneration scheme at Holborn, in South Shields, has seen the transformation of disused docks and derelict land into a vibrant residential quarter.
In order to carry out the project, the site has underwent extensive remediation works including decontamination of the ground, raising of the former dry docks to overcome serious flooding issues, and construction of a new quay edge wall.
South Tyneside Council has revealed that the civil engineering work is now complete and the land has been handed over to developers for the final wave of house building.
Phases one and two at the development have already delivered 135 new homes and apartments - all of which have been sold and are now occupied.
The last phase will see Keepmoat construct 47 new dwellings with Cussins delivering another 109.
The local authority has confirmed that 24 homes in the final phase will be affordable, both for discounted market sale and affordable rent, delivered through Benicia.
As well as new houses, the redevelopment work has also created a new play area and once completed, it will also include a public riverside promenade leading to the restored dry docks.
Cllr Margaret Meling, Lead Member for Economic Growth and Transport at South Tyneside Council, said: “This really has been a massive transformation. It’s incredible to think that this evolving riverside community was disused, inaccessible land just a few years ago.
“We’re not just creating places for people to live — we’re supporting local businesses, increasing footfall and helping to strengthen the local economy for years to come.
“Holborn is a fantastic example of regeneration on a significant scale, and we’re proud to see the final phase now taking shape.”
Allex Davison and her partner bought their first home within the development in January 2025, with the couple and their young baby living in a three-storey townhouse overlooking the River Tyne.
The 29-year-old said: “We have a living room with a balcony with a gorgeous view of the river and the ferry – once we had seen that view we were totally sold.
“We love going for walks along the coast and I think once the public walkway opens up it will get better and better.
“There aren’t many developments like this in South Tyneside, so it’s quite sought after.”
Part of the civil engineering work at the site included the infilling of the largest of the four former dry docks - with timelapse footage showing the impressive transformation.
The three remaining docks have been restored to preserve the area’s industrial heritage.
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