Shopping mall boost for North Shields

There are hopes the new businesses would create more jobs opportunities in North Shields

Plans for the redevelopment of a shopping centre in North Shields will regenerate the town, North Tyneside's elected mayor has said.

The Beacon Centre currently holds 38 shop units and a department store.

Glasgow-based development company Baronsgate Estates which now owns the site, has put forward proposals for a second, internal mall.

This would provide space for 10 more shops, and negotiations with retailers are under way.

Elected mayor Linda Arkley said: "The new Beacon Centre will ensure the stability and vibrancy of the town centre of North Shields for the future, in addition to creating numerous jobs throughout the redevelopment phase and in the new businesses that will open thereafter."