North Tyneside Council has bought the 25ha former Swan Hunter shipyard in a joint venture with One North East as part of the plans for the north bank of the Tyne.
The two bodies, together with Newcastle upon Tyne City Council, began drawing up a strategic approach three years ago following closure of the yard which is seen as key to development of the whole area.
"The former shipyard forms an integral part of the north bank of the Tyne regeneration strategy which has earmarked marine offshore and new and renewable industries as the new businesses to occupy land stretching from North Shields to Walker," said ONE director of capital development David Cramond.
A strategic development framework has now been published to guide regeneration of the 660ha between Walker and North Shields over the next 15-20 years (BB, September 2009).
Plans for the Swan Hunter site include support for the marine engineering, sub-sea technology and enterprise villages and educational facilities. There will also be a new ferry berth and improved riverside access.
"This is a massive step forward for us a partnership. It means we are able to ensure the delivery of an appropriate and timely regeneration programme to create a new economy for the future of the River Tyne north bank," said North Tyneside strategic director for development Martin Swales.
