A fortunate few will later this month have the chance to see close up how restoration work is progressing on North Shields ’ landmark Exchange building.
Work is currently underway to restore the historic Exchange theatre, bar and arts venue on Howard Street in the town.
The 170-year-old building is getting some much needed external TLC with windows, walls and timbers being repaired and conserved as part of the £1.1m restoration project.
Go here for the very latest breaking news updates from across the North East
A series of 45 minute hard hat tours has been planned for March 24 – with places being snapped up within hours of them being advertised by North Tyneside Council.
But those lucky enough to have grabbed a slot will be able to don a hard hat and see up close as experts work on the repairs, as well as find out more about the history of The Exchange and the local area.
There will also be a chance for construction students to see first-hand how historic buildings are repaired to help them develop skills in traditional construction trades, such as stone masonry and joinery.
Work on the Grade II listed Exchange is expected to be completed by late June this year.
It is one of North Shields’ most recognisable buildings. Reflecting the wealth that once flooded into the town from its maritime connections, the structure was designed by eminent North East architect, John Dobson.
He is perhaps best known for creating Newcastle’s impressive Central Station and working with Richard Grainger on developing the centre of the city, including Grey Street, which was voted the most beautiful thoroughfare in Britain by listeners of BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.
In its time The Exchange has served as a magistrates’ court, savings bank, museum, civic offices, a Mechanics’ Institute and town hall before being converted into a cultural arts venue in 2016.
The Exchange is being upgraded as part of the North Shields High Street Heritage Action Zone (HAZ), which is funded by Historic England and North Tyneside Council.
The HAZ project is part of the council’s Ambition for North Shields and the Fish Quay regeneration Masterplan, a four year programme of physical improvements, as well as community and cultural activities.
A place-based scheme, it is designed to secure lasting improvements to historic high streets and the communities who use them.
Work is also underway to recreate the Georgian-era appearance of North Shields’ historic Northumberland Square, harking back to its heritage and roots in the late 18th and early 19th Centuries.
The scheme will be the first step towards creating a new cultural quarter for North Shields, comprising the square and the top end of Howard Street, offering a new pedestrian, cyclist-friendly and cultural space.
North Shields is one of more than 60 High Street Heritage Action Zones around the country.
Part of a government-funded initiative led by Historic England, it is aimed to breathe new life into local high streets, from regenerating historical buildings to engaging local communities through art and cultural projects.
