One of the busiest streets in North Shields town centre is about to be transformed by a major programme of improvements.
What is planned
Bedford Street is getting smart new paving, mature trees and modern seating to create an attractive, high-quality finish. The scheme is due to be complete in autumn 2025.
The pedestrian area will be extended along the length of the street, with access for emergency and maintenance vehicles only. The new layout will improve safety and create extra outside space for café seating, other business use and events.
The work is being done by North Tyneside Council’s construction partner Capita.
Access to all shops will be maintained throughout the works and Bedford Street remains open for business. The Council has spoken to affected premises about their delivery and access needs and new loading bays are being provided.
The clock tower outside the Beacon Centre has been demolished as part of the scheme. We have considered the needs of those with limited mobility to access the pedestrianised area. We have included additional blue badge parking bays on Russell Street and relaxed waiting restrictions on Wellington Street and West Percy Street.
The new, improved Bedford Street will connect with other regeneration sites at the Transport Hub, Howard Street, Northumberland Square, and the Riverside Embankment Walkway linking the Fish Quay to the town centre.
The project is funded by the North East Combined Authority, Active Travel England and the UK Government.
What is happening?
Bedford Street will be repaved, with new trees and seating added. Only emergency and maintenance vehicles will have access. The pedestrian area will be extended south from Wellington Street to connect to Saville Street. The work is being done by our construction partner Capita.
Why are we doing it?
Improvements to Bedford Street are part of our Ambition for North Shields and the Fish Quay. This aims to create a more vibrant town centre with smarter public spaces. Bedford Street will have a high-quality finish, like other recent schemes including the Town Square and Howard Street. We are stopping vehicle access to make the street safer for pedestrians.
Who is paying for it?
It’s being paid for by Government funding, via the North East Combined Authority and Active Travel England. It’s not being paid for from council tax.
Will businesses stay open?
We are making sure there is access to shops and other businesses all the way through the works. We have spoken to them all about deliveries and new loading bays are being provided. The Christmas market will still go ahead.
Where will I park?
You will not be able to park on Bedford Street. If you have a blue badge, extra spaces are being added on Russell Street. If you are dropping off, you can use Wellington Street and West Percy Street. The Beacon Centre multi-storey is the best parking option for shoppers.
I have a question, how do I get in touch?
You can email AmbitionNS@northtyneside.gov.uk or call (0191) 643 4830.
