South Shields is a coastal town located at the mouth of the River Tyne, just under 4 miles downstream from Newcastle upon Tyne.

As part of a £100 million redevelopment programme, the popular seaside resort, as well as largest town in South Tyneside has recently seen a number of improvements to the town centre, with additional developments also ongoing.

Designed by Harris Partnership and implemented by South Tyneside Council in partnership with Nexus and Muse Developments, the recent updates include enhancements to pedestrian routes and the highway network improving the way people can travel in and around the town in order to boost the local economy. Bowmer & Kirkland were appointed as the main contractors.

Forming part of Phase Two of the redevelopment masterplan, a new £21 million Transport Interchange building has been constructed which brings the Metro and bus services under one roof. With an enhanced entrance on Fowler Street, located at the centre of South Shields, the Metro system is estimated to attract around 7.5 million passengers a year.

Developed in conjunction with transport operator Nexus and the North East Combined Authority, the Metro system offers the ideal way to travel between the city and the seaside and has been rated as one of the UK's most efficient modes of transport, serving Tyneside and Sunderland.

Marshalls Landscape Protection were honoured to have been selected and entrusted by the project development team to support the design, development and manufacture of a number of bespoke furniture solutions to offer commuters places to sit and relax outside the station.

Installed by Groundwork Services, Durham, the Marshalls Landscape Protection seating solutions are Made in Britain and have been designed specifically for the project, following client proposals.

Our standard GEO seating range was adapted by omitting the timber slats and incorporating a series tubular stainless steel lengths to provide an even more durable and contemporary finish, tying in to the modern architecture of the new Transport Interchange building.

Also installed along the main walkway to the station are Marshalls Landscape Protection bespoke granite raised planters. These are manufactured with highly durable granite and combined with steel seating panels and arm rests. The seating enhances the look and feel of the area, creating a greener atmosphere in the town, helping to reduce carbon footprint and improve visitor experience.