New security gates planned at historic South Pier in South Shields to boost public safety and stop vandalism

South Tyneside Council’s planning department has received applications for the Grade II-listed South Pier from applicant the Port of Tyne.

The plans are seeking permission for "the installation of a new gated access system" at the South Pier and listed building consent for the installation, described in planning documents as "proposed secondary gates."

A location plan notes the gates are being proposed halfway along the pier while a covering letter submitted on behalf of the Port of Tyne notes the reasons for the proposed installation.

This includes "preventing public access to the head of the pier where waves can overtop the pier wall and lighthouse during adverse weather conditions", as well as preventing vandalism.

It was noted that the "lighthouse and pier head has been regularly vandalised through the illegal access", with examples of "starting fires on the pavement near the lighthouse damaging the pavement and the stone wall" and lighthouse windows being damaged.

Applicants noted that "the existing gates to the west near the base of the pier will be retained and will not be removed as a result of the proposed development" and that it is intended that"these gates will be closed when the weather is poor".

The Port of Tyne also said that the need for the new gates "reflects the more recent application for the CCTV [at the pier] which was approved by South Tyneside Council on August 5, 2025.

The covering letter for the new development adds: "Additionally, as a consequence of climate change the frequency of large waves overtopping the piers is becoming more common and it is important to ensure the public observe the fact the piers are shut in such conditions.

"The gate is to be made black to suit the surrounding furniture and railings, utilising materials such as galvanised steel.

"The proposed height of the gate is three metres, and this will feature anti-climb cacti whilst utilising existing holdings in the pier with one new post."

Those behind the scheme added that the proposals would "not harm the significance of the Grade II-listed South Pier" and would "result in a betterment to the area from a social perspective."

Decisions on the planning applications are expected following a council consultation exercise.

Comments can be made on both applications, via South Tyneside Council's planning portal website, until January 16, 2026.

For more information on the plans, visit the council's planning portal website and search reference numbers 250677 and 250676.