Revamp aims to give South Shields shopping area a real lift

Improvement works have started around Horsley Hill Square.

Shop fronts in Horsley Hill Square, South Shields, have already been renewed and the units remodelled, helping to attract new businesses and tenants to the area.

Now, in a bid to complement the new-look buildings, South Tyneside Council is making further improvements – with new paving, landscaping, street furniture and an additional 18 parking bays being created.

It's business as usual in Horsley Hill, Square - and it's hoped the improvements will attract new shops and customers.

Work has already begun to replace the old flag stones with longer lasting Tarmac, resin-bound surfaces and Saxon Paving – similar to the footpath surface used at the nearby Nook shopping area on Prince Edward Road.

New mature trees, like those planted in flagship regeneration scheme Ocean Road, will also be planted in an avenue-style arrangement – replacing the existing trees and redundant tree pits in the square.

New pedestrian guardrails and street furniture is also planned to create an improved street scene for visitors.

Councillor Tracey Dixon, lead member for area management and community safety at South Tyneside Council, said: “Horsley Hill Square is a busy shopping thoroughfare which is well used by local families.

Horsley Hill Square will be given a fresh new look with new paving, seats and parking.

“The new-look shop frontages have really helped to improve the appearance of the buildings and we are delighted to be able to bring about further improvements.

“This scheme will help to make the area more attractive as well as provide better parking facilities.

“They are sure to bring about real benefits for local businesses and residents alike.”

Horsley Hill ward councillor Coun Mark Walsh added: “The scheme has been designed to improve the look of the area and make it more pedestrian-friendly. I’m delighted to see the work underway.

“Once complete, it will provide the local community with an enhanced public space with better seating, paving and extra parking for visitors.

“Improvements such as these make a huge difference to an area and will give Horsley Hill Square a real lift.”

The programme of environmental improvements are being phased in over four years and form part of the Council’s Capital Footpath Programme, with work also planned in April 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Details of the scheme are currently on display in local shops and the Marsden Road Health and Wellbeing Centre.