Decision day on plans to bulldoze South Shields Job Centre and rehouse it in new eco-friendly building in next stage of 365 project

Developer Muse Developments Ltd recently revealed proposals to build a 12,000 sq ft centre which will become the town’s new Job Centre Plus.

Forming part of the multi-million pound South Shields 365 masterplan being delivered through collaboration between Muse and South Tyneside Council, the new building would become home to 65 employees.

The scheme would also see the Job Centre Plus branch in Barrington Street demolished and rehoused in a new building off Mile End Road.

Council chiefs say the proposals would free up key land in a key development area for the next stage of the 365 vision for South Shields town centre.

Phase three of the regeneration project will bring “an exciting retail and leisure offer with improved connectivity, pedestrian access and public open space to benefit both the town and the community”, developers added.

South Tyneside Council’s Planning Committee will discuss the new build office on Tuesday, May 26.

The parcel of land, near the Life of Riley public house, was formerly used as a multi-storey car park before its demolition in 2006 and has remained as a temporary car park with around 60 spaces.

New plans for the site include a two storey building for both office and ‘financial and professional’ uses.

The proposed office development would also provide 12 cycle stands and a total of seven car parking spaces, including one disabled bay and two electric vehicle charging points.

Although the existing public pay and display car parking area would be lost if the plans are approved, developers state there is enough capacity in car parks across South Shields.

A survey, provided by the applicant in a transport assessment, states there are 13 car parks containing 1,374 spaces within walking distance of the site.

During consultation on the plans, no objections were received from the council’s parking manager over the loss of the temporary car park.

Transport operator Nexus also asked for extra safety assurances around construction works due to a Metro line running adjacent to the site.

This included guidelines for the use of cranes or mechanical plant working, restrictions on the type of lighting used and conditions over site management and controlling dust and dirt.

South Tyneside Council planners have recommended the new office block for approval.

A report prepared for councillors reads: “This application seeks a detailed planning permission for an office development, including landscaping and on site car parking.

“Outline planning consent was previously given for office development on this site but this development was not implemented and the permission lapsed.

“The current proposal would result in a brownfield site being developed within South Shields town centre.

“This development is acceptable in terms of layout and design, impact on the general character of the area, amenities of neighbours, highway safety and in terms of the council’s objective of delivering sustainable development.”

A final decision on the Job Centre plan will be made by councillors at a digital Planning Committee next week in line with social distancing guidelines.

The meeting starts at 10.30am and can be watched live online here:www.southtyneside.gov.uk/watchcouncilmeetings

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