Former South Shields Job Centre demolition approved as face of town centre continues to change

The demolition plans fall against the backdrop of regeneration work in South Shields, which has seen the Job Centre Plus branch move to a new building in Mile End Road, on the site of the former multi-storey car park.

Meanwhile, work is well underway to clear empty buildings in King Street and East Street, which sit just over the road.

Plans are in place to move South Tyneside College to a new location in the town centre, subject to funding – though the exact site has not yet been announced.

According to a planning application from the council, the Job Centre building at Chapter Row, is “surplus to requirements” with the demolition work aiming to “make way for future area re-development.”

Following consultation, South Tyneside Council planners approved the demolition plans for the old Job Centre site on February 3.

A decision report prepared by planning officers reads: “The proposed method of demolition would be appropriate given the scale of the buildings.

“The proposed method of site restoration would also be acceptable, leaving the site in a tidy condition.

“It is considered that given the nature and scale of the proposed demolition work that prior approval is required.

“However, it is considered that the proposed method of demolition and site restoration would be acceptable.

“It is therefore recommended that although prior approval is required, it is hereby approved.”

According to planning documents, the demolition of the old Job Centre site is expected to take place between early April and the end of June 2022.

The proposed demolition works would be completed by “sequential dismantling techniques” alongside measures to reduce noise and dust.

Following the demolition of the building, the vacant plot will be finished with top soil and seed and a timber fence will be installed around the perimeter of the site.

For more information on the demolition plan, visit South Tyneside Council’s online planning portal and search reference: ST/0025/22/DEM

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