Next step in North Shields regeneration scheme revealed

A vacant office block in North Shields is set to be transformed into a housing-led development as part of a wider regeneration project in the town.

North Tyneside Council has completed the purchase of Unicorn House in Suez Street, which has been empty for almost seven years.

The three-storey building, which was originally purpose-built for government use, will be cleared to make way for a regeneration scheme to complement ongoing work on the £5m development Northumberland Square.

Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside Council, Cllr Bruce Pickard, commented: “We are an ambitious council, which is reflected in our plans for North Shields and the borough as a whole.

“Unicorn House is a former office building in a prominent position which has been empty for some time and has become an eyesore.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to really revitalise and breathe new life into this part of the town, which links the town centre with the riverside, and attract more people to live in the town centre. It will also complement our other exciting plans for North Shields and the rest of the borough and help keep North Tyneside a great place to live, work and visit.

He continued: “This is an exciting time for North Shields as our master plan begins to take shape – we are working closely with residents, businesses and our partners and will be seeking their views and we’re sure everyone will be really pleased with the proposals.”