Member Article

The Word seeks restaurateur to be the jewel in South Shields’ £100m regeneration crown

The North East Centre for the Written Word (The Word), the new digital media centre and library in South Shields, is looking for an established restaurateur to launch a new café-bar and roof-top restaurant at the site.

Newcastle chartered surveyor and property consultancy Sanderson Weatherall has been appointed to market the property, which The Word believes will be the jewel in the crown of the£100 million regeneration of South Shields.

The 3315 sq ft restaurant, with a fully fitted kitchen, is offered as well as a 1300 sq ft ground floor café, complete with terrace space.

Construction works on The Word began in April 2015 with completion expected by autumn this year. The project, by Muse Developments in partnership with South Tyneside Council, hopes to boost South Shields’ cultural vibe, mixing tradition with technology.

Robert Patterson, Sanderson Weatherall’s head of commercial agency in Newcastle, said: “Once complete The Word will be an iconic public building in the heart of South Shields town centre offering high specification space.

“The town has a thriving retail and leisure market and a café-bar and restaurant at this high profile location is sure to be a huge success attracting local residents and tourists alike. We certainly expect to see a lot of interest in both opportunities.”

Councillor Iain Malcolm, Leader of South Tyneside Council, added: “As the centrepiece of our 365 regeneration plan, The Word will help position South Shields as a year round visitor destination.

“A rooftop restaurant offering fantastic views and a café will enhance the appeal of this superb cultural attraction and encourage both residents and visitors to stay for longer in the town centre.”