South Shields road closed this weekend as crane is removed

The crane has been used in the construction of the new library and digital media centre The Word and has been a distinctive feature of the town’s skyline for the last six months.

Now the external structure is complete, the crane will be dismantled and moved off site via Ferry Street which will be closed from 5.30am on Saturday until 6pm on Sunday. In the event of high winds, this will be postponed until the following weekend January 30 and 31.

The Word, the North East Centre for the Written Word, forms the centrepiece of the first phase of a £100 million regeneration plan for South Shields town centre in a joint scheme by Muse Developments, one of the country's leading names in urban regeneration and the local authority, South Tyneside Council.

Coun John Anglin, lead member for regeneration and economy, said: “The removal of the crane marks another significant milestone in the development of this project which is right on schedule.

“The next phase is to fit out this innovative centre with the latest cutting-edge equipment which will draw people from the region and beyond and enhance the town’s appeal as a cultural and leisure destination.”

When it opens this Autumn, The Word, the North East Centre for the Written Word, will boast an impressive range of facilities including exhibition space, a computer gaming area, design and innovation studio with 3D printers, digitised archives, meeting rooms, children's immersive storytelling area, OpenZone IT suite, café and a rooftop restaurant and terrace providing stunning views over the river. The construction works are being delivered by main contractor Bowmer & Kirkland through their regional office in Houghton Le Spring, and they have a proven track record of delivering high quality projects of this nature nationally.

The footpath on the West side of Ferry Street is also set to be closed this weekend but there will still be access to Dean Street and Church Way.