South Tyneside Council has appointed Esh Construction to deliver the £3.2m restoration of the historic North Marine Park on South Shields’ seafront
Work will start later this summer to return the North Marine Park to its original Victorian heritage as well as introducing new features, with support from a £2.4m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF).
Preliminary works began earlier this year and Esh Construction is expected to begin construction in August, undertaking the work in phases so that the park remains open for visitors.
Councillor John Anglin, lead member for regeneration and economy, said: “This is a real milestone and I’d like to welcome Esh who will be working with us to deliver this exciting project.
“After years of planning, securing funding and developing detailed proposals for the park, our vision for the site is about to start taking shape.
“North Marine Park is a jewel in the Borough’s crown and an important part of our cultural heritage.
“For more than a century it has been a favourite spot for local people and visitors and our commitment to restoring it will ensure that this beautiful, calm haven will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
The work, which is expected to take around 12 months, will involve creating better links with Littlehaven Promenade and improving the area around the Lawe Top, which as North Marine Park’s highest point, acts as an incredible viewing platform for the coastline, harbour and mouth of the river.
The project will also involve creating a new themed play area, which will reflect the Borough’s maritime links and Roman heritage, and restoring the park’s original features such as the grotto and the grand promenade staircase. Improvements to the park’s open areas, lighting, seating, footpaths and bowling area are also planned.
Ross Markwell, head of business development at Esh Civils North East, said: “It’s great that Esh has been chosen to work alongside South Tyneside Council to help to restore a key part of history within the borough.
“The contract agreement shows the strength of our relationship with the council as well as our commitment to improving the area, and will work alongside our current onsite works at the International Advanced Manufacturing Park.”
