Public consultation has shown strong local support for bringing South Shields Old Town Hall back into use, with both residents and businesses backing plans to restore and revitalise the historic landmark.
Earlier this year, South Tyneside Council invited the community to share their views on potential future uses for the Grade I listed building in the town’s marketplace.
The response was significant, with hundreds of people taking part. Four in five agreed that preserving and reusing historic buildings is extremely important.
More than 80 per cent of residents said they would like to see the Old Town Hall transformed into a heritage and history attraction. Meanwhile, local businesses favoured ideas that would complement the surrounding marketplace, such as pop-up or market space and a café.
Nine out of ten respondents believed that bringing the building back into use would improve the area, while almost half said it would help create a stronger sense of pride.
One described the structure as “one of those landmarks that’s tied up with the identity of South Shields – it’s part of the historic heart of the town centre.”
Suggestions for its future included: ‘A space for arts, crafts, classes and exhibitions’; ‘a good focus point for local history tours and walks, heritage events’; and ‘Somewhere where people would want to come and maybe have a drink on the weekend.’
Many respondents also shared personal memories of the building, along with ideas on how it could be carefully restored. Others highlighted the importance of improving accessibility and making the surrounding area more welcoming.
The consultation followed the council securing funding from the government’s Community Regeneration Partnership fund to explore bringing the building back into regular use.
Cllr Dave Royal, Lead Member for economic growth, investment and regeneration, said: “It’s clear that there is a lot of civic pride attached to this much-loved landmark.
“Local people would like it brought back into use in a way that respects its heritage, supports the market and helps breathe new life into this part of the town centre.
“We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to share their views, and this feedback will now be used to help shape a deliverable plan for the Old Town Hall.”
The building dates back more than 250 years and has served a variety of roles, from a busy market hub and feudal courthouse to a wartime shelter and exhibition space. It still retains many original features, including its distinctive arches, timber turret and traditional market bell.
The council will now use the consultation findings, alongside further technical and feasibility work, to develop options for the future of the Old Town Hall. Updates will be shared as the project progresses.
For more information, visit South Shields Old Town Hall – South Shields : Our South Tyneside Conversation, South Tyneside Council.
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