BDN wins South Shields Glassworks regen contract
Building Design Northern will invest around £7m into the site between Mill Dam and Harton Quay, with proposals including multiple food and drink operators, a tap room, and entertainment and event spaces.
South Tyneside Council will now work alongside BDN to shape detailed proposals and secure planning permission.
BDN was behind the regeneration of Sunderland’s Sheepfolds Stables, which also offers a diverse range of independent food, drink, events and entertainment venues, and will look to emulate that success.
Located on the site of the former Cookson’s Glassworks factory, the riverside scheme is next to the former BT business centre, which will soon be transformed into a student hall of residence.
The council is hoping to continue to add to its regeneration efforts within South Shields, which includes Harton Quays Park, The Word and the Transport Interchange, Holborn docks, the relocation of the college into the town centre, and the emerging Mill Dam cultural hub.
Cllr 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 investors 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.”
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.”
