Book writes new chapter on Dome's history

A revised and updated book will tell the complete story of the iconic Spanish City from its beginnings to the recent historic reopening.

North Tyneside Council opened the doors to the beautifully-restored building in July with nearly 16,000 people stepping foot inside over two days ahead of its reopening.

The new edition of The Dome of Memories celebrates the hugely successful and memorable opening weekend and gives readers the most comprehensive history of this much-loved venue.

Published by North Tyneside Council, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and written by Mick Sharp, of Black Dog Design, it is a follow-up to the original book released in 2011 which followed a major exhibition at the Dome attended by more than 15,500 people.

The revised version captures the essence of that unique exhibition and adds new and previously unseen stories, research and images.

There is also a fascinating insight into the outstanding programme of restoration, culminating in the Dome’s renaissance.

Mick said: “We are really over the moon with the new edition of the book.  We have seen a tremendous renewal of Spanish City and the book captures this remarkable story.

“We have photos that people haven’t seen before plus more stories of the families and people associated with the Spanish City. The book tells the story the buildings, the people and a shared ambition to sustain a venue that is central to the history of the Whitley Bay leisure experience.”

He added: “Hopefully, the book will revive quite a lot of memories for people.”

North Tyneside Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn CBE, who wrote the book’s foreword, said: “The book is a fantastic way to capture the Dome’s history and its stunning regeneration.

“It’s a high quality publication, which will be of interest to anyone who has visited the restored Spanish City, has fond memories of the Dome or simply wants to know more about its history.

“I am delighted that we have been able to work with the author Mick and the Heritage Lottery Fund to create something that tells the complete story of the Spanish City restoration project, which is at the heart of our ambitious work to revitalise the coast.”

The Dome of Memories will be on sale for £10 from a number of council buildings including Customer First Centres and libraries and St Mary's Lighthouse. Copies will also be available from Keel Row Bookshop in North Shields and at Spanish City.