Members of the public are being invited to put on a hard hat and find out more about the restoration of a North Shields landmark.
The historical Northumberland Square is undergoing a programme of redevelopment sympathetic to its Georgian heritage and roots led by North Tyneside Council.
Supported and co-funded by Historic England under the North Shields High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ), the work will take the square back to its original layout based on plans from 1826. The Square was originally laid out as a formal garden with a network of footpaths for those living in the Georgian terrace surrounding and featured a perimeter of trees.
Cllr Carl Johnson, Deputy Mayor of North Tyneside, said: “Over time the appearance of the Square changed with the layout of the footpaths altered and no longer featured any planting as the canopy of trees had grown to be too dense.
“The project aims to reinstate the original footpath layout and create a tranquil, pleasant and open space for everyone to enjoy, with more flexible space better suited to accommodate events, such as the Victorian Christmas Market, and leisure activities.”
Residents have the opportunity to tour the redevelopment works of Northumberland Square on 18 May, exploring the history and revitalisation of the green space. The talk and tour will give people a unique insight into the history of the area, how it changed over time and see the current works taking place up close.
Places must be booked in advance via Eventbrite or by calling 07786 468 979.
The North Shields High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) is a partnership between North Tyneside Council and Historic England.
The HAZ project, which is part of the Council’s Ambition for North Shields and the Fish Quay Regeneration Masterplan, is a four-year programme of physical improvements, as well as community and cultural activities. It is a place-based scheme designed to secure lasting improvements to historic high streets and the communities who use them.
The scheme will be the first step towards creating a new Cultural Quarter for North Shields, which aims to revitalise the area, creating new green spaces and better suited spaces for events and leisure activities, as well as restoration of the Grade II listed Exchange theatre, bar and arts venue on Howard Street.
North Shields is one of more than 60 High Street Heritage Action Zones around the country, part of a government-funded initiative and led by Historic England, which aims to breathe new life into local high streets, from regenerating historic buildings to engaging local communities through art and cultural projects.
Book your tour of Northumberland Square here.
