A historic South Shields building will be spectacularly brought back to life, as we move forward with a stunning regeneration project to create a vibrant new leisure venue.
We’re proud to have been named by South Tyneside Council as the preferred developer to bring land at Harton Quay back into use, marking a major step forward in the continued transformation of South Shields’ riverside and town centre.
We will work closely with the council over the next year to shape detailed proposals, secure planning permission and prepare the former Cookson’s Glassworks factory for an exciting future as a new cultural and leisure destination – a sister site to our award-winning Sheepfolds Stables development in Sunderland.
The council invited expressions of interest and proposals for the site, which is located between Mill Dam and Harton Quay, with direct access to the Customs House and next to the former BT business centre, which will soon be transformed into a student hall of residence. We were chosen as the successful bidder following a competitive process, in which we submitted outline plans for a £7m sympathetic transformation that will deliver a destination venue including multiple food and drink operators, a tap room and entertainment and event spaces.
Richard Marsden, managing director of BDN, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have secured this opportunity in South Shields.
“For us, successful partnerships are built on trust, so we always value working with organisations that stick to their word and share our long-term vision. We have found such a partner in South Tyneside Council.
“The site itself is steeped in history, and it’s a privilege to play a role in its next chapter. With our new venue, The Glassworks, we aim to showcase the heritage of the location in a contemporary and engaging way, celebrating what makes it special while bringing new energy to the area. We’re particularly excited about the prospect of reigniting the existing chimney, a distinctive symbol of the site’s past, and helping to ensure it remains a landmark for generations to come.
“We hope to bring a really vibrant leisure venue to the area, with a range of eateries including a high-quality seafood offering, given the site’s riverside location.”
Over the coming months, the council and the developer will refine proposals that complement the character of Mill Dam and protect heritage elements such as the historic, locally-listed Glassworks chimney and boundary walls.
Councillor Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “This is another hugely exciting moment for South Shields.
“We are delivering real momentum across our town centre and riverside, and this site has always been one of the most important pieces of the jigsaw.
“To have secured a developer with a proven track record – including the phenomenal success of Sheepfolds Stables – shows the confidence people now have in South Tyneside and in our long‑term regeneration plans.
“This project will help us grow a vibrant cultural quarter at Mill Dam, complement the Customs House renovation, and create the kind of destination our residents told us they want: more places to eat, drink, meet and enjoy.”
