Overview
Why make the move?
The cross-Tyne Shields Ferry service is an iconic part of the communities it serves and provides a vital transport link between North and South Tyneside. We’ve operated the service since 1972, but crossings have been taking place here for over 800 years.
The current North Shields ferry landing structure is deteriorating. We’re planning to relocate the landing to the regenerated North Shields Western Fish Quay, which has easy links to North Shields town centre and the Riverside Walkway.
This is a crucial project for the long-term sustainability of ferry operations on the Tyne. It supports North Tyneside Council’s town centre regeneration proposals as well as North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ vision for a world-class integrated transport network, and will ensure a bright future for a vital and much-loved local service.
Making it happen
Progress so far
We secured a total of £18.55m in funding for the new landing—a hugely welcome contribution which was great news for our customers and the workforce. The project is funded by Nexus and the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
The current north landing is an increasing maintenance and structural challenge, and we’ve carried out structural works to keep it in use beyond 2025 while we transition to the new landing.
The relocation is a complex scheme, which requires the use of specialist marine suppliers, the mitigation of environmental impacts and the safeguarding of existing quay operations. The new funding commitment reflects all of these factors and allowed us to get started on the build this year.
We’ve carried out the design and preparatory work, have appointed a contractor and are now in the process of starting preliminary works.
Alongside progress on the north bank, we’re also actively investing in the refurbishment and development of the South Shields landing and both ferry vessels.
Frequently asked questions
There are several major benefits with the new North Shields Ferry landing project. It will provide better customer experience with a more modern and convenient ferry experience, improving access to North Shields, supporting work and leisure commutes. The relocation will support leisure and tourism by creating a modern long-term sustainable form of transport across the Tyne service, integrated with the thriving Fish Quay area. Other benefits include: - Boosting for the local economy through increased visitor footfall to the Fish Quay, - Creating jobs in hospitality and tourism, - Better links to North Shields town centre regeneration, - Improves commuter access and connectivity, - Securing the long-term sustainability of the iconic Shields Ferry, - Revitalising the riverside area for residents and tourists. - Less maintenance requirements on the landing.
No, the new landing project is focused on replacing the deteriorating current landing. The ferry can operate while the works take place.
No, we'll still have the two ferries we have now, the project is just focused on the North landing.
Yes. Relocation of the North landing will bring some small changes to timetables and journey times. The journey over the Tyne will take a couple of minutes longer. There may also be adjustments to bus routes serving the Fish Quay area so customers can access the town centre quicker and easier.
Following a detailed tendering process the contract has been awarded to McLaughlin & Harvey. The company has an outstanding track record in civil engineering and specialist construction projects. Construction work for the landing relocation will involve significant site preparation, utility rerouting, and removal of old structures. A compound has been set up on the Fish Quay.
Neighbours near the North Shields Fish Quay will likely experience increased traffic which will include construction vehicles during the build and potentially more public/tourist traffic when the project is complete. The project aims to secure the ferry's future and improve transport links, so increased activity is expected. Working hours on site are stipulated by the local authority and will be between 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays. No work will be carried out on a Sunday. We will keep the communities, customers and our stakeholders fully informed of the scheme as it progresses.
Nexus is the owner and operator of the North Shields ferry landing, and is the public body running the Shields Ferry. We are responsible for maintaining the new landing once completed. We are working closely with the Duke of Northumberland who owns the riverbed.
We will work closely with all related parties and stakeholders within the project. Port of Tyne: The Port is a key stakeholder as the river authority and the quay areas. The project involves marine construction within their jurisdiction, requiring their consent and managing river traffic. North Shields Fish Quay: The new landing will be within the Fish Quay, extending the existing Protection Jetty to link directly to the Fish Quay's waterfront area, enhancing visitor access to the quay. Duke of Northumberland: While not directly building on his land, the project involves land access, utility routing, and development adjacent to his holdings, necessitating engagement for necessary permissions and alignment with local development plans.
We are working with environmental specialists to minimise impact on marine life, manage noise and air quality, ensuring compliance with all environmental regulations.