Vision for thriving arts hub in former industrial building in South Tyneside

Plans for photography, art and music studio facilities at Prospect House off Amos Ayre Place in the Bede ward have been given the green light by South Tyneside Council.

The former factory building was recently subdivided into separate units – with several businesses now based at the site.

New plans from NPI Group Ltd form part of redevelopment proposals for the building, including external alterations and extensions to help attract new uses.

This includes a music production/ recording studio, which would also be used for teaching, a gallery / exhibition space, an art studio with education uses and a photography studio.

Following consultation, South Tyneside Council’s planning department approved the change of use proposals on February 24.

In a decision notice, planners said the proposals would help “create employment and bring current vacant units back into viable use.”

The report reads: “The external works and extensions proposed would improve the visual appearance of the building and street scene; the site is visible from surrounds, including Newcastle Road, a main approach into South Shields.

“There have been very limited enquiries during the period from 2016, for industrial uses of the property that would result in the total occupation of the building for such employment uses and other enquiries have been received for non-[industrial and storage/distribution] uses.”

Applicants predict that the new units would create up to 12 full-time and five part-time staff roles.

The council decision report adds: “It is considered that the proposed works would enhance the building, which has deteriorated over the years due to lack of occupancy and investment.

“The size, scale and design of the extensions would reflect the existing built form and proportions of the building.

“The materials proposed would match those of the original building and a condition is recommended requiring the use of facing materials as detailed within this application.

“The introduction of further glazing and entrance doorways to the main frontage would add activity and further visual interest to the building.”

Under planning conditions, work must be brought forward within the next three years.

For more information on the application, visit South Tyneside Council’s online planning portal and search reference ST/0823/20/FUL

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