South Shields riverside regeneration project that will create 365 new homes takes a step forward as developer revealed

Plans for a vibrant riverside development in South Shields have taken a major step forward following a decision by council bosses.
Artist’s impression of how the proposed development could look.Artist’s impression of how the proposed development could look.
Artist’s impression of how the proposed development could look.

Earlier today (Wednesday, April 29), South Tyneside Council’s cabinet approved the appointment of a development partner to realise its masterplan to transform disused docks and brownfield land at Holborn into a living, working and entertainment quarter.

Keepmoat, working in partnership with Cussins, have been hired as the development partner to deliver 365 homes at the site following a tender exercise.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

High quality family houses and apartments and associated infrastructure will be delivered in phases under the plan.

Leader of South Tyneside Council, Iain Malcolm .Leader of South Tyneside Council, Iain Malcolm .
Leader of South Tyneside Council, Iain Malcolm .

The area is already home to award-winning schemes such as Harton Quays Park, business centre One Trinity Green and the Trinity South residential development.

Leader of South Tyneside Council, Coun Iain Malcolm, said the Holborn site was the “final piece of the jigsaw” which brings the council’s South Shields 365 regeneration scheme together.

“This is a real milestone and we are delighted to welcome Keepmoat and Cussins on board to deliver the residential element of our ambitious plans,” he said.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“The Holborn masterplan is set to transform disused docks into a bustling riverside quarter, delivering hundreds of new homes and new office space that will help create hundreds of new jobs.

Artist’s impression of the proposed developmentArtist’s impression of the proposed development
Artist’s impression of the proposed development

“The Holborn area has been largely derelict for many years and this mixed-use development will transform disused, industrial land into a desirable location for businesses, residents and visitors and further strengthens the link between the riverside and the town centre.

“High quality family homes, office space, a hotel and a cultural offer and will complement the significant investment that has already gone into the wider riverside area, further building a sustainable future for South Shields.”

The scheme has secured £4.2 million of grant funding from the Homes England Local Authority Accelerated Construction fund, as well as £9.4 million from the North East Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) for the delivery of a future phase of office accommodation.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A 4.5 hectare section of the 10.5 hectare site was also awarded Enterprise Zone status after a successful bid supported by the Local Enterprise Partnership – an award which enables businesses to benefit from financial incentives.

Keepmoat Homes’ Regional Managing Director, Ian Worgan, said: “We are looking forward to working in collaboration with the council officers and members to continue our involvement with the regeneration of this part of South Shields and to delivering our part of this exciting and technically challenging scheme, which will bring more quality family homes to the riverside location.”

Chief Executive of Cussins Homes, Jabin Cussins, added: “South Tyneside Council, Keepmoat and Cussins have an exemplary track record of delivering high quality regeneration projects of regional prominence and together we are well placed to transform this landmark site.

“Key to the success of the scheme will be a strong focus on creating a vibrant enjoyable place to live that reflects the unique dockland heritage, whilst ensuring that the homes we build are accessible and affordable to the widest range of purchasers throughout South Tyneside.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

As part of the Holburn scheme, a comprehensive engineering strategy will be brought forward to renew the quay edge, overcome serious flooding issues and create a gentle slope from Commercial Road to the Tyne.

A new river edge promenade will also be created and the riverside’s industrial history will be preserved with the renovation of three of the former dry docks.

Coun Malcolm confirmed he had asked officers to explore the potential of creating a new marina with one of the dry docks.

He added he was “looking forward to progressing with confidence to create a real first class new development for the people of South Tyneside and the wider region.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“This challenging but exciting project is gathering pace,”he said.

“There has been a lot of work going on behind the scenes to acquire the land and properties needed to allow the regeneration to progress.

“In parallel with appointing a residential partner, we are working on bringing a remediation contractor on board to maximise the potential of this unique site.

“Together, they will help inform the remediation works and refine the final designs for the site.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The council leader added work on the new homes will begin as soon as the developer is confident they can start the work safely after the Covid-19 crisis.

To view a video about the Holborn project, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urzs-6xPq5E