A new “coastal village” aimed at further transforming the seafront is a step closer to becoming reality in the North East after work got underway to prepare the site for development.
Work has begun on the scheme, led by Colmans, on land next to its Seafood Temple on South Promenade in South Shields.
Richard Colman Ord, director of Colmans Hospitality Group, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to support a like-minded community of small businesses and bring something a little bit different to South Promenade.
Beach Hut visual
(Image: Supplied)
"It feels like starting work on our coastal village has been a long time coming but it’s exciting to see work finally getting underway.
"There’s a real buzz around the development and we’ve been blown away by the interest from local, independent traders keen to work alongside us and breathe new life into land that’s been dormant for far too long."
The project, backed by South Shields-based Colmans, is designed as a year-round leisure, retail, and events destination.
Beach Hut visual
(Image: Supplied)
It will feature 20 beach huts, retail pods, offices and event space, with daily rental options for the huts and retail opportunities offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The new coastal village is hoped to be open by spring 2027 with a number of prestigious independent local traders already agreeing deals to open outlets from day one.
Mr Ord said: "The seafront at South Shields is already a favourite destination for families from across the North East and the coastal village will be another reason for spending a special day out on the coast.
Colmans Coastal Village, from left, Dominic Colman Ord, Richard Colman Ord, Tony Garrett (BDN), Ryan Doyle (BDN)
(Image: Supplied)
"Colmans has been at the heart of the local community for 100 years and breaking ground on the coastal village is another landmark moment in our centenary year."
Ryan Doyle, operations director at BDN, which is involved in the development, said: "It's great to see work now underway on a project that will further enhance one of the North East's most popular coastal destinations.
"Having previously worked with the Colmans team on the restoration of the Seafood Temple, we're delighted to be supporting them again on this exciting development."
Colmans Coastal Village, from left, Dominic Colman Ord, Richard Colman Ord, Tony Garrett (BDN), Ryan Doyle (BDN)
(Image: Supplied)
The coastal village is the latest in a series of ventures driven by Colmans directors and brothers Richard and brother Dom, during a period of expansion for the hospitality group, known for its award-winning fish and chips.
Earlier this year, the company announced plans to launch the Colmans Foundation and in May acquired the Village Café in Whitburn.
Last year, it opened its first restaurant north of the Tyne, a permanent location in Fenwick, Newcastle.
Dom Colman Ord said: "It’s 100 years since we opened Colmans on Ocean Road and we always intended our centenary year to be special.
"The opportunities are coming thick and fast but we’re in the fortunate position where we can make a positive impact on the place we’ve always called home.
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"There’s an incredible amount of work going on behind the scenes right now as we look to develop various projects.
"But we’re surrounded by a committed team who we trust implicitly.
"Everyone’s excited to see work start on the coastal village – it has the potential to be another jewel in the crown for South Shields."