From the Newcastle Journal this morning, 7th November 2009 . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/TynemouthStationRestoration.jpg

Background . . .

Tynemouth Station, now Tynemouth Metro Station, opened in 1882 and is a grand Victorian station, renowned for its extensive and highly decorative iron canopies, by William Bell. It is a Grade II listed building, parts of which are very much still at risk.

http://static.guim.co.uk/Guardian/artanddesign/gallery/2008/jul/08/heritage/GD7973701@ENGLISH-HERITAGE-4235.jpg

Tynemouth Station with its beautiful wrought iron and glass canopy, originating from 1882, and in the early days it was respected and well maintained. It even won several prizes for being the best-kept station on the North Eastern Railway line.

http://www.tynelives.org.uk/stephenson/images/tstation.jpg

For many years, as well as being a busy station on the Tyne & Wear Metro, the extensive areas of the old Victorian Station are used on Saturdays and Sundays, as a very popular and well attended indoor Antiques and Collectables market . . .

http://newcastleupontynedailyphoto.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/HPIM64871.JPG

But, to either end of the station, the old Victorian arches are as shown in the first photo at the top of this page. and so there is a lot of work still to do to save those areas of the old station that have not yet been repaired.

Here are the detailed proposals . . .

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.tynemouth-market.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/527118760_0c0b29f01a.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.tynemouth-market.com/tynemouth-station/&usg=__9Itdy2mYDlMEocZHfpCrXCUFAFg=&h=375&w=500&sz=204&hl=en&start=11&um=1&tbnid=9bhO1jUC7epihM:&tbnh=98&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3DTYNEMOUTH%2BSTATION%26ndsp%3D18%26hl%3Den%26rls%3Dcom.microsoft:en-gb:IE-Address%26rlz%3D1I7GGIE_en%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1

So . . much to do yet, but a VERY deserving restoration, in my opinion.

.

I hope they do restore it, it's a beautiful canopy. Commercially with it being part of the Metro line, there has to be a use it.

Some other PHOTOS . . .

The re-furbished area in the foreground (used for the Antiques Market at the weekend) with the un-repaired areas in the far background . .
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1199/527118760_0c0b29f01a_b.jpg

Detail at the top of the Roof Columns . .
http://i3.photoblog.com/photos3/62815-1248650822-1.jpg

A similar close-up of an area still at risk . .
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3553/3470956695_3ff19ceda7_b.jpg

Does anyone have any images of the proposal? The only one on that link doesn't show much (and looks a bit crap)... People should support the restoration of the station, but only if it's going to be done well, without some form of ham-fisted extension that will make the place look awful.

Does anyone have any images of the proposal? The only one on that link doesn't show much (and looks a bit crap)... People should support the restoration of the station, but only if it's going to be done well, without some form of ham-fisted extension that will make the place look awful.

The only formal one that I have seen, is the one from the LINK above, shown here . . .

http://www.tynemouth-market.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/development-proposal.png

I'm not sure I can even make out what that represents!

Essentially (as I have been told it) it is simply a continuation of the restoration of the two ends of the Victorian Station, in the same way that the central part has already been done.

The only 'danger' is that some commercial deals may need to be done which could result in things (shops, or whatever) being built internally within parts of the areas still to be restored, though I have not been told that I am just 'surmising'.

i am guessing there's no call for extra platforms so what would the area currently fenced off and derelict serve as?

i am guessing there's no call for extra platforms so what would the area currently fenced off and derelict serve as?

There is a paragraph in the Development Proposals (from link in Post 1) that seems to state its "intentions" . . .

Station Re-development

This initiative will restore Tynemouth Station to its Victorian splendour, expand its strong tradition as an arts venue of regional significance, and ensure its future is sustained. The introduction of enhanced community facilities within an urban design of exceptional quality will provide an exciting gateway to our cultural coast.

As its core, the project wishes to see the Grade II building restored, but restored with a purpose. The project will include a new library and community facilities to the north and a new major tenant to the south. The concourse will be opened up to become a major events space for the region and could see enhanced markets, arts events, theatre and exhibitions.

A vibrant programme of arts and cultural events are proposed for the concourse.

How based in realism this is, or whether it is just a 'wish list', I don't know.

Tis a great station, would hate to see it lost.

I live just up the road from Tynemouth Station and Ylana First has done a great job in preserving it this long...she's also being incredibly balanced in her appraisal of the newest proposal, basically acknowledging that if they dont accept it, the money will never arrive and large areas of the canopy will be pulled down as unsafe. The Tynemouth Residents Arseholes are doing their utmost to get in the way though, bombarding the local press with all sorts of the usual NIMBY scaremongering. (parking, traffic, access, unfair competition, wont somebody think of the children etc etc - all unfounded bollocks as usual)

But i know these people....if its Tesco Extra they'll fight tooth and nail to stop it. If its Waitrose, just watch their concerns disappear!

There is a paragraph in the Development Proposals (from link in Post 1) that seems to state its "intentions" . . .

Station Re-development

This initiative will restore Tynemouth Station to its Victorian splendour, expand its strong tradition as an arts venue of regional significance, and ensure its future is sustained. The introduction of enhanced community facilities within an urban design of exceptional quality will provide an exciting gateway to our cultural coast.

As its core, the project wishes to see the Grade II building restored, but restored with a purpose. The project will include a new library and community facilities to the north and a new major tenant to the south. The concourse will be opened up to become a major events space for the region and could see enhanced markets, arts events, theatre and exhibitions.

A vibrant programme of arts and cultural events are proposed for the concourse.

How based in realism this is, or whether it is just a 'wish list', I don't know.

I think its actually quite likely NH, the Station has hosted multiple events in the past, this will just give more scope to do so (as well as extra capacity for the popular twice-weekly market). They even have artists in residence to fill the renovated gallery space on the bridge over the tracks - if anyone doesnt know what i mean i urge you to pay a visit. its easily reached by metro apparently....

My sister lives on Hazeldene Court and I've used this station loads of times. It really is a lovely station and in such a sad state. The market is great, I love it when its on when I'm around. It would be great for some new uses for the building to be found so restoration can be completed.

Tynemouth Station work gets a cast iron guarantee

Nov 16 2009 by Tony Henderson, The Journal
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Tynemouth Station

RESTORATION plans for a listed Victorian station were boosted today by a £2m cash arrival.

The money will be spent on resurrecting the ornate cast iron canopies at Tynemouth Station – regardless of whether approval is given to a wider scheme for the historic site.

The grant, which will also be used to enhance the station’s exhibition areas, has come from the Government-funded Sea Change programme, which is aimed at revitalising seaside communities.

Next month North Tyneside councillors will decide on a planning application by Station Developments.

The scheme proposes the restoration of the canopies, use for arts, cultural and market programmes, the provision of a library, heritage centre, photographic society, food store, caretaker’s office, public toilets, car parking, public meeting rooms and toilets.

The grade II-star listed station was built in 1882.

A spokesperson for North Tyneside Council said: “We welcome the offer of £2m funding from Sea Change to ensure the canopies of Tynemouth Station can be restored, and the exhibition areas enhanced.

“We will now work closely with Sea Change, Station Developments and English Heritage to take forward the implementation of a scheme to carry out the necessary work.”

Morris Muter, managing director of Station Developments Ltd, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the £2m which has been offered towards the Tynemouth Station project. We will work with the funders and our partners, particularly North Tyneside Council and English Heritage, to determine how the project should move forward and how we can ensure we get best value out of the funding which has been offered.

“We could not have got this far without the tremendous support shown by our partners, and our particular thanks go not only to the council and English Heritage, but to the Friends of the Station who have worked tirelessly alongside us for many years to achieve our mutual goal of completing the restoration of this magnificent structure to its former glory.”

Excellent news.

I was starting to worry a little about this, should have known better, great stuff!

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/nov2009/9/4/tynemouth-station-140358793.jpg

It will be FANTASTIC when it's all done!

From last month, but still relevant . . Not sure what the very latest position is on this?

Supermarket plan for old station site
09 October 2009, by Athony McLean

COUNCIL planners are considering proposals for a huge new supermarket in Tynemouth as part of a multi-million pound scheme to redevelop the historic railway station.

http://editorial.jpress.co.uk/web/Upload/NGDN//TH1_910200922Tynemouth%20Station%20plans.jpg

If the plans are approved the village could see a 1,500 square metre supermarket – bigger than the Netto store in North Shields – built on derelict grassland just south of Tynemouth Station, with 67 parking spaces to help the store compete directly with North Tyneside's Morrisons supermarkets.

Some 25 jobs are expected to be created at the store although it has not yet been confirmed which retailer will occupy the new space. Commuters and motorists will access the supermarket – likely to be open from 6am until 11pm every day – from the A193 Tynemouth Road.

The proposal is part of the £10 million redevelopment plans for the historic station that were announced last month, which will also see the restoration of the canopies, a new library, caretaker's office, new public toilets, public meeting rooms and a tourist information centre. The current library on Front Street will be moved to a new building to the north of the station, along with a new community centre.

The plans, expected to be debated by councillors by December, have been submitted by Station Developments who own Tynemouth Station and run the market.

The company is jointly owned by North Tyneside Council and The Millhouse Group. Both the council and company have made a bid for a £4m grant from the Sea Change initiative, along with a further application to English Heritage to enable the restoration works to go ahead.

The planning application on the new supermarket claims it "would improve the existing shopping provision in the local area which lacks a modern supermarket." But Stephen Bennett, of Park Crescent, said the last thing Tynemouth needed was huge supermarket in the heart of the village. "This is a historic station," she said. "It has been in need of regeneration for a number of years, but it is not right that the regeneration should come at the expense of building a huge supermarket in the centre of the town."

A report on the application adds: "The proposed foodstore would be large enough to compete with the existing Morrisons stores and to claw back some of the leakage out of the catchment area. "It would significantly improve consumer choice and competition in convenience goods shopping in the local area. "The net floorspace is larger than that of the Co-op supermarkets in Tynemouth and Whitley Bay and Netto in North Shields, but it is smaller than the Co-op in North Shields and significantly smaller than Morrisons in the Collingwood Centre and Morrisons in Whitley Bay."

Interesting how developers come up with the notion of 'derelict grassland' when they want to build on existing open space... reminds me of how NUFC and their hirelings on the city council lied and lied about the supposed 'dereliction' of Leazes Park when thay wanted to steal it and destroy it to build their grand new stadium. However, I don't know this patrticular derelict lawn, and a decent s'market would help revitalise the centre of Tynemouth in that locals might shop there.

there's two bits of grass either side of the tracks - i am guessing it will be the one to the right, but it's an odd shape for a supermarket.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouth.jpg

Originally posted by TownPlanningNE on the Tyne & Wear Metro thread, on 18 January 2010 . .

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/tyne/8466365.stm

Tynemouth Station gets £500K more cash for restoration

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/46734000/jpg/_46734424_44510127.jpg

A Victorian station on North Tyneside has been given a further cash injection of £500,000.

The grant, from English Heritage, will go towards the restoration of the ornate canopy at Tynemouth Station.

It brings the amount awarded by English Heritage to £1m and comes on top of a recent £2m government Sea Change grant.

Grade II-listed Tynemouth Station opened in 1882 and was once described as one of the finest in the country, but is now on the "at risk" register.

Morris Muter, from the station owner's Station Developments Ltd, said: "This latest grant offer from English Heritage is most welcome and will be instrumental in filling a funding gap.

"I look forward to working with them and the other members of the project team in order to ensure delivery of the restoration and conservation scheme."

Carol Pyrah, from English Heritage, said: "Tynemouth Station is one of the highest priority buildings at risk in the region.

"The large grant we have offered is testament to the significance of the building and the urgency of repairs needed to the extensive iron canopies."

Didn't they want about £5m to upgrade it, so another £2m to find.

Hi All,

Just found this forum and have been following the discussions about the new supermarket proposals for Tynemouth Station in the local rag and decided to do a little exercise to see exactly how big the proposed supermarket will be. The lighter shaded areas are the associated carparks.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2781/4287590897_8dfb06c5c6_b.jpg

I think this diagram makes it quite clear that the 'super' market will be small and unobtrusive and if it's a necessary evil to secure extra funding to save such a worthy building then so be it.

I personally think a supermarket of this size would benefit Tynemouth greatly, as the existing Coop is pretty inadequate.

I don't believe you can put a large supermarket in Tynemouth if you want to protect local business's, but I don't agree it's the only way. Surely splitting it up into smaller units for example say Greggs, Shake"a"holic, Subway, or new local bussiness's would be less of a threat to existing local business's and bring in around the same amount of investemtn, yet still be able to keep it's charm. I just think a supermarket, no matter how small it maybe will take alot of that away from Tynemouth station. I was going to say maybe Tynemouth could do with a an Aldi or Lidl, but again I think the cheap shop affect like those would take away alot of the stations charm, and I don't think those cheap shops really fit into Tynemouth. I'm all for the metro station becoming hubs, but the coastal station need to have a little more planning, detail, and thought put into it to make it work well.


Welcome to the forum by the way.

I agree Roland, and i think that modestly sized supermarkets well integrated into their surroundings can have a beneficial on the immediate local retail area. it tends to be the big hypermarkets set back in acres of carparking that destroy the local retail.

Hi bigchrisfgb,

I personally don't think that splitting up the site into smaller units for businesses like Subway and Greggs would do anything for the station's reputation as a cultural hub that it is trying to build up.

As was previously mentioned something like a small Waitrose or M&S would seem to fit with the aspirations of Tynemouth and i really can't see which local businesses these would endanger...?

The size of the proposed site would limit the supermarket to a food only site and the only food shop in Tynemouth that i can think of is 'The Deli Round The Corner.' But i think this would survive because it is niche and unique enough.

Can anyone else think of businesses in Tynemouth that might suffer? It seems to be a standard line that is trotted out when supermarket proposals are put forward but in this case i can't think of that many...

I saw a while back that the station platform was being temporarily used as a garden centre or something like that as i passed through on the metro and thought that would be quite an inventive use for the station space...

Hi bigchrisfgb,

I personally don't think that splitting up the site into smaller units for businesses like Subway and Greggs would do anything for the station's reputation as a cultural hub that it is trying to build up.

As was previously mentioned something like a small Waitrose or M&S would seem to fit with the aspirations of Tynemouth and i really can't see which local businesses these would endanger...?

The size of the proposed site would limit the supermarket to a food only site and the only food shop in Tynemouth that i can think of is 'The Deli Round The Corner.' But i think this would survive because it is niche and unique enough.

Can anyone else think of businesses in Tynemouth that might suffer? It seems to be a standard line that is trotted out when supermarket proposals are put forward but in this case i can't think of that many...

I saw a while back that the station platform was being temporarily used as a garden centre or something like that as i passed through on the metro and thought that would be quite an inventive use for the station space...

I only used them as an example of the sized retail units that should be on offer, to be honst Victoria Wine and the likes would be better suited for Tynemuth, though I'm sure they have store on the High St. A decent sized pub could also be an idea, but drunk plus railway lines don't generally mix well I imagine. M&S Food or Sainsbury's, or even a small Waitrose would do well there aswell though.

I hope you will have a look at our other threads aswell, I noticed that your from Cullercoats, so you could possibly give us updates on the Candyman store, and also a house just up the road from there is being re-furbished including new sandstone with all the details ingraved into above the doorway and windows. We have many other bits of information on here that maybe a great interest to you.

Can you link me to some of the discussions about the Candyman etc I have done a search and can't find anything. I live just up the road and walk past it everyday...I am intrigued as to what is going on there too. I have heard rumours that it is going to be an ice-cream parlour/cafe?

Can you link me to some of the discussions about the Candyman etc I have done a search and can't find anything. I live just up the road and walk past it everyday...I am intrigued as to what is going on there too. I have heard rumours that it is going to be an ice-cream parlour/cafe?

I'm not sure we have really discussed it yet, atleast not in detail.

Well to avoid a hijacking this topic anymore i'll start one!

Well to avoid a hijacking this topic anymore i'll start one!

Maybe it should be discussed in the Skybar for now and see if it gathers enough interest and posts before we give it it's own thread. :)

Canopies may be only change at Tynemouth Station
A SUPERMARKET at the centre of a scheme to fully restore an historic railway station may not now go ahead.

A bid by Bedlington-based Station Developments for Tynemouth Station includes the restoration of ornate iron canopies, the supermarket and associated car parking, public library with heritage centre, photographic society, community meeting rooms, public toilets and landscaping.

The grade II-star listed station, built in 1882, is described as one of the finest and most important examples of a medium-sized Victorian station in Britain.

But it is in the highest category of English Heritage’s At Risk register. Next week North Tyneside councillors will decide on two applications.

One is for listed building consent and planners recommend approval.

If this is agreed it would allow the restoration of the station’s canopies, for which a £2m Government Sea Change grant and £1m award from English Heritage has been made.

But councillors are being advised to reject the second full planning approval bid, which would mean the small to medium sized supermarket and library/heritage centre would be thrown out. Station Developments say the supermarket is needed to generate income to maintain the extensive canopies.

English Heritage, which backs the scheme, said: “After an extended period of delay, a succession of failed schemes over the past 30 years, numerous specialist reports and studies, the current proposal might now be seen as the best opportunity to secure the future of this nationally-significant and much-loved at risk asset.

“The long-term integrity and well-being of the site rest firmly upon the necessary income being generated to cover future maintenance costs.” The scheme is also supported by Tynemouth Village Association and the Friends of Tynemouth Station.

Regional development agency One North East says the proposals are welcome as a sustainable solution to the long-term maintenance of the historic station.

The Northumberland and Newcastle Society has “concerns” which include the effect of the supermarket and library on Tynemouth Front Street.

Of 229 letters received, 199 are objections, claiming over-development of the site, and the effect on the village feel of Tynemouth. Tynemouth MP Alan Campbell supports the canopy restoration and library/heritage centre but not the supermarket which he claims could harm businesses in the village centre.

Planners say Station Developments have under-estimated the likely demand for car parking for the supermarket.

They also say the supermarket would double the current commercial floorspace in Tynemouth, where out of 49 commercial properties, six are vacant .

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/nov2009/9/4/tynemouth-station-140358793.jpg

http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2010/01/28/canopies-may-be-only-change-at-tynemouth-station-61634-25699686/

New twist over plans for Tynemouth Station
Jan 29 2010 by Tony Henderson, Evening Chronicle

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nechronical/jan2010/4/6/tynemouth-residents-are-concerned-about-plans-for-the-station-576473890.jpg

A 30-YEAR saga surrounding the restoration of a historic station has taken another turn.

Next week measures for the Grade II listed Tynemouth Station go before North Tyneside Council’s planning committee.

The scheme involves the restoration of the station’s ornate iron canopies, and a small to medium-sized supermarket, public library with heritage centre, community meeting rooms, public toilets and landscaping.

One application, recommended for approval, is for listed building consent, which would allow the restoration of the canopies, backed by a £2m Government Sea Change grant and £1m from English Heritage.

But a second full planning bid has been listed for refusal, which would mean dropping the supermarket and library/heritage centre aspects.

The first scheme is backed by the Tynemouth Village Association, Friends of Tynemouth Station, English Heritage, and 30 letters of support.

But 199 residents have lodged objection letters, with many concerns centring on the supermarket.

Local Labour MP Alan Campbell, North Tyneside Friends of the Earth and the Northumberland and Newcastle Society are also opposed to it.

Bedlington-based Station Developments has lodged the application for full planning consent.

Managing director Morris Muter said a group working on the future of the station included his company, English Heritage, and senior officers from North Tyneside Council.

He added that the shop development would not only help pay for the overall restoration, but also meet the long-term maintenance costs..

On the subject of the recommendation to refuse their plans, Mr Muter said: “I find the whole process illogical and bizarre.

“The scheme being proposed by the council-led group is being opposed by another element of the council.”

Nigel Bryant, chairman of Tynemouth Village Association, said: “We are very enthusiastic about the scheme. This is a huge opportunity for Tynemouth and for the station to become a vibrant part of the community.”

“There is little point in restoring the canopies if they can’t be maintained.”

Judith Wallace, deputy mayor of North Tyneside, said: “We have been working with Station Developments and other organisations for a number of years to explore the opportunities of ensuring this architecturally important building is retained for future generations. However, the offer of £2m Sea Change funding has specified that this is only available for the restoration of the canopies.”

Upset as plan for historic Tynemouth Station is rejected
Feb 5 2010 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jan2010/2/6/tynemouth-station-644899332.jpg

THE rejection of a scheme which aimed to secure the future of one of Britain’s most historically-important suburban rail stations was met with bafflement yesterday among supporters of the plans.

The 1882 Grade II-star listed Tynemouth Station is described by English Heritage as arguably one of the finest and most important examples of a medium sized Victorian station in the country.

North Tyneside councillors approved an application which will see the restoration of the ornate iron canopies at the station, which is a priority on English Heritage’s at risk register.

But they turned down a second bid from Station Developments for a wider scheme which included a library and heritage centre, community rooms and small to medium supermarket which would generate funds for the station works and on-going maintenance costs over future years.

Morris Muter, managing director of Station Development, said the project group which had worked on saving the station had included the company, English Heritage and senior council officers.

He said: “The grounds for refusing the application are small, narrow and misconceived. The greater good and benefit which the proposals would have brought to the historic station could have easily justified mitigating the refusal reasons and granting consent.

“I feel that the whole project team has been greatly misled by the council. There have been vast sums of public and private money ploughed into pursuing the council’s proposals – all to no avail.

“I believe the decision is flawed and I will be reviewing our position with our legal planning team in order to consider lodging an appeal.”

Nigel Bryant, chairman of Tynemouth Village Association, said: “The station is a valuable asset to Tynemouth and the North East and this is a chance missed.”

Ylana First, secretary of the Friends of Tynemouth Station, said: “ When I first saw these plans I was so thrilled I hugged people. Now I am very disappointed. It is unbelievable, and I have my theories.”

Carol Pyrah, regional director, planning and development, for English Heritage, welcomed the canopies’ restoration. But she said: “We are disappointed that the planning application for the wider development of the site has been refused.

“English Heritage has been involved with Tynemouth Station, alongside the council and the site owners, for many years and considers the current proposal as an appropriate scheme that would safeguard the future of this nationally important at risk site.

“We also recognise the importance of re-establishing the station’s role in the wider community, and of bringing life and vitality to the site.” She said the decision meant that more money – in addition to grants from English Heritage and the Government’s Sea Change programme – is now required to fund the essential canopy works and cover future maintenance of the site.

“We now look to North Tyneside Council to support this, supplementing both the recent English Heritage grant offer and the Sea Change award,” she said.

“The council needs to know where the money is coming from for the canopies and for future long-term maintenance.”

Jon-Jo MacNamara, council cabinet member for regeneration and development, said last night “The important thing is that we can now start work on the restoration of the canopies.

“We recognise the importance of the station and the planning decision is not the end of the road. My door remains open and I welcome the opportunity to work with all parties so that we can move forward.

“We are not against development at the station but it must be what is right and appropriate for the station”


Concerns

CONCERNS over the station plans, many of which centred on the supermarket, came from 199 objection letters, local MP Alan Campbell, North Tyneside Friends of the Earth and the Northumberland and Newcastle Society.

Council planners said that the food store could affect the viability of Tynemouth and North Shields centres and that the likely demand for on-site parking for the store had been under-estimated.

In my personal opinion they made the right decision providing they can fund therepair work and future maintenance work.

I've been lurking here for a long while but never posted. Felt an urge to stress my disappointment about this decision.

I personally can not see how this development could be of detriminent to the local area, it would have regenerated what is currently unused and unmanaged poor quality land, secured a sustainable future for the station following the expenditure of the grants and would have offered competition to what is the only real convenience retail store in Tynemouth, the overpriced and limited coop.

Having followed the local press I think concern about this development has been carried in a whirlwind of rumours (with no confirmation/justification) that tesco would be the store operator.

The Council obviously assessed the effects of the scheme and refused it based on traffic/parking (67 spaces? while the supermarket is located in a metro station) and retail impact, but there were several positive considerations which I feel surely outweighed these negatives.

I hope Station Developments return with an alternative or take this to appeal. It would be shame to see so much money spent on the station yet the land for the supermarket remain in its current state.

I've been lurking here for a long while but never posted. Felt an urge to stress my disappointment about this decision.

I personally can not see how this development could be of detriminent to the local area, it would have regenerated what is currently unused and unmanaged poor quality land, secured a sustainable future for the station following the expenditure of the grants and would have offered competition to what is the only real convenience retail store in Tynemouth, the overpriced and limited coop.

Having followed the local press I think concern about this development has been carried in a whirlwind of rumours (with no confirmation/justification) that tesco would be the store operator.

The Council obviously assessed the effects of the scheme and refused it based on traffic/parking (67 spaces? while the supermarket is located in a metro station) and retail impact, but there were several positive considerations which I feel surely outweighed these negatives.

I hope Station Developments return with an alternative or take this to appeal. It would be shame to see so much money spent on the station yet the land for the supermarket remain in its current state.

seems a bit ridiculous to me. the proposed supermarket is pretty small and on wasteland and most importantly the income it would generate would safeguard the station for generations to come.

regarding retail impact, surely a small supermarket would be a boost to the area?

I've been lurking here for a long while but never posted. Felt an urge to stress my disappointment about this decision.

I personally can not see how this development could be of detriminent to the local area, it would have regenerated what is currently unused and unmanaged poor quality land, secured a sustainable future for the station following the expenditure of the grants and would have offered competition to what is the only real convenience retail store in Tynemouth, the overpriced and limited coop.

Having followed the local press I think concern about this development has been carried in a whirlwind of rumours (with no confirmation/justification) that tesco would be the store operator.

The Council obviously assessed the effects of the scheme and refused it based on traffic/parking (67 spaces? while the supermarket is located in a metro station) and retail impact, but there were several positive considerations which I feel surely outweighed these negatives.

I hope Station Developments return with an alternative or take this to appeal. It would be shame to see so much money spent on the station yet the land for the supermarket remain in its current state.

I agree with this. I think it would be of benefit if this development happened.
Welcome to the forum by the way!

Ridiculous reporting in the local press doesn't help. A 1,500 sqm supermarket is not "HUGE!" Consider Tesco Metro at Kingston Pk is about 11,500 sq m, it puts 1,500 sq m in perspective.

As usual, no understanding of economic realities.

^^ To be fair, the people of Tynemouth have clearly spoken on this issue. Of those who responded to the consulation, most did not want it. Its about time local authorities listened more to the views of residents. Whilst I understand the reasons for and against a small supermarket, I can see why residents might not want it. We have all heard the stories about supermarkets killing the local high street etc, and in the case of Tynemouth they have a great village centre. Maintaining this (one of the key attractions for visitors) is more of a priority than redeveloping a transit stop.

^^ To be fair, the people of Tynemouth have clearly spoken on this issue. Of those who responded to the consulation, most did not want it. Its about time local authorities listened more to the views of residents. Whilst I understand the reasons for and against a small supermarket, I can see why residents might not want it. We have all heard the stories about supermarkets killing the local high street etc, and in the case of Tynemouth they have a great village centre. Maintaining this (one of the key attractions for visitors) is more of a priority than redeveloping a transit stop.

Hmm, as a Tynemouth resident myself im afraid i cant agree with that. The majority of residents i live amongst were actually for the development, and the Friends of Tynemouth Station were delighted with the proposals as they guaranteed the future of the station as a social hub (not a derelict building with a nice roof, which is exactly what we're getting)

The only shop in the village which will feel a detrimental effect is the Co-op which frankly, is badly laid out overpriced shite, even given its recent facelift. Look at the other shops on Front Street - antique shops, craft shops, a surf shop, designer boutiques and childrens clothes - these wouldnt be affected at all...there's just no overlap with your average Tesco Metro!

The local authorities weren't listening to the residents here - they were (yet again) bowing to a highly-vocal highly-mobilised minority who oppose ANY change in Tynemouth.

i liked the look of the new supermarket and library tbh. they were well integrated into the station and of a light, modern design that nonetheless doesn't clash with what's already there. i think the kinds of supermarkets that destroy town centres are the huge ones, selling everything that are set with acres of carparking. this one was a food store of modest size, inside an existing transport hub, close to the existing facilities and with a sensible amount of carparking. the retail assessment also said that 50% of custom would've been "clawback", bringing back tynemouth people who currently have to travel outward to big-box hypermarkets else where.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouthstation4.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouthstation3.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouthstation2.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouthstation1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouthstation.jpg

Tynemouth Station restoration to be boosted by
festivals and cultural events
Apr 13 2010 by Sonia Sharma, The Journal


A HISTORIC station could play host to major festivals and cultural events as part of plans to restore the site and boost tourism.

The 1882 Grade II-listed Tynemouth Station, in North Tyneside, is being revamped with a £2m Sea Change grant from the Government.

Renovation work will involve improvements to the station’s ornate iron canopies.

The structures are currently derelict and on the English Heritage register of buildings at risk.

Once the canopies have been restored, North Tyneside Council wants to open up the concourse underneath for a string of high-profile events that would help to bring more people into the area.

The proposals include a variety of festivals and art programmes throughout the year, including one suggestion for a mini roller-skating rink.

There could be an Easter children’s event with activities and workshops for youngsters to enjoy, a May Day celebration with music and entertainment, and a show featuring national and regional folk musicians.

There are also plans to hold a heritage day to mark the area’s historic links to railway and transport. This could include vintage vehicles, model railways, workshops and screenings of railway films as well as an antiques roadshow-type event.

In addition, it is hoped street and circus acts will grace the platform, and artists will be commissioned to create public work and utilise the space available.

One proposal is for professional artists to use fire, light and sound to bring the station’s architecture to life, and another is for a Christmas market to be organised, with carol singing, magic acts, ghost stories, and possibly even the mini skating rink.

The cultural programme will be managed by the council’s arts, tourism and heritage team, in partnership with agencies such as Tyne and Wear Museums, Friends of Tynemouth Station, Friends of the Earth, music and street performance groups.

The station already hosts weekend markets, book fairs and art displays on the bridge connecting the two platforms.

Ylana First, from The Friends of Tynemouth Station, said: “I’m very excited and enthusiastic about the arts and culture programme. I’ve been doing it myself for years by organising the book fairs and bridge art displays.

“I have always envisaged the station as being a centre for art right from the beginning. The wonderful thing is that it is a large outdoor venue and is under a cover.

“In the past it has won prizes for being the best kept station in the region and even in the country. Perhaps in the future it will once again win prizes for being the most beautiful venue.”

The council is looking at ways of managing car parking space to accommodate more people coming to Tynemouth.

It is working with Nexus to promote a park and ride scheme from Four Lane Ends and Northumberland Park. For larger events, park and ride schemes could also run from St Mary’s Lighthouse, Briardene and Bournemouth Gardens car parks in Whitley Bay.

I don't know the full ins and outs of all of this, but on the face of it the proposals look pretty reasonable. I think Johnny's right, this supermarket would have brought Tynemouth residents back into the centre when they'll have been doing their shopping at the big supermarkets closer to/on the Coast Rd. Architecturally I actually quite like the proposals - they're sympathetic whilst still being contemporary and would have enlivened a currently quite quiet station.

However I think that this highlights something that I've noticed recently - the idea of the silent majority. If more people had written to the council to back this scheme it could have passed. You can't really blame the council - if lots of people write to oppose an application and no one writes to support it, then they will quite fairly assume that the public don't want it. Equally, when a poor application comes in, lots of people whinge about it but don't make the effort to formally email to oppose it.

As a result, leading on from Andrew's point about Hunters Moor Hospital, why don't we start to make comments on applications? We all churn out thousands of words about how great/awful applications are on here and then sit back and passively wait to see what happens. I'm as guilty as anyone, but if we simply bashed out a quick email about any application we feel strongly about, we'd at least have a small impact upon whether it passes or not.

Upset as plan for historic Tynemouth Station is rejected
Feb 5 2010 by Tony Henderson, The Journal

Concerns

CONCERNS over the station plans, many of which centred on the supermarket, came from 199 objection letters, local MP Alan Campbell, North Tyneside Friends of the Earth and the Northumberland and Newcastle Society.

Council planners said that the food store could affect the viability of Tynemouth and North Shields centres and that the likely demand for on-site parking for the store had been under-estimated.

I just don't understand how those concerns were even legitimate. How on earth would a relatively small Tesco (for example) be detrimental to Tynemouth? You can break down Front Street into three different categories; bar & restaurant, specialist retailer and the Co-Op. Non of what's on offer in the first two categories are typically available in a supermarket, so the only retailer under threat by the rejected station development would have been the terrible, overpriced, understocked Co-Op.

I've also noticed that one of the key nimbies, Dr Joan Harvey, was a Lib Dem candidate for mayor a few years back. Just shows the sort who control or seek to control the area - much to the detriment of everyone else. My sister tried to get her nose in the Tynemouth Resident's Association and voice concerns, but it seems younger, more recent 'villagers' are not welcome and has since been ignored.

It is safe to say ... that station needs the biggest refurb ever.

Any news on Tynemouth Station?

Following a campaign by the older, vocal NIMBY brigade, an excellent library and small supermarket scheme complete with station refurbishment was scrapped. I also understand that a grant available to help fund station works is getting smaller, as the council instead focuses on the utterly pointless Whitley Bay road diversion.

I've just heard that the Tynemouth Station redevelopment and supermarket is probably going ahead after the developer appealed.

Can I just say; Up yours nimby dinosaurs, up yours sh*tty Co-Op :banana:

Good news by the sound of things...

Good news by the sound of things...

Sounds like excellent news. The station is falling to pieces. The local nimbys need to wind their necks in and roll with the times.

I spoke to a contact of mine today, she confirmed that the appeal was won in favour of the supermarket restoration.

Supermarket plan for old station site
09 October 2009, by Athony McLean

http://editorial.jpress.co.uk/web/Upload/NGDN//TH1_910200922Tynemouth%20Station%20plans.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v293/throwaway/tynemouth.jpg

COUNCIL planners are considering proposals for a huge new supermarket in Tynemouth as part of a multi-million pound scheme to redevelop the historic railway station.

If the plans are approved the village could see a 1,500 square metre supermarket – bigger than the Netto store in North Shields – built on derelict grassland just south of Tynemouth Station, with 67 parking spaces to help the store compete directly with North Tyneside's Morrisons supermarkets.

Some 25 jobs are expected to be created at the store although it has not yet been confirmed which retailer will occupy the new space. Commuters and motorists will access the supermarket – likely to be open from 6am until 11pm every day – from the A193 Tynemouth Road.

The proposal is part of the £10 million redevelopment plans for the historic station that were announced last month, which will also see the restoration of the canopies, a new library, caretaker's office, new public toilets, public meeting rooms and a tourist information centre. The current library on Front Street will be moved to a new building to the north of the station, along with a new community centre.



So, is it this supermarket plan from December 2009 (see earlier in this thread) that has now got approval?

In short answer, yes. Just for the record my insider is pretty far up in these matters, in fact the only higher I could get is if it came from the Mayor herself. So this has been approved.

This maybe of some interest to some of you.

http://edocs.northtyneside.gov.uk/WAM/doc/Appeal%20Decision-227115.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=227115&location=Volume1&contentType=application/pdf&pageCount=1&appid=1001

This maybe of some interest to some of you.

http://edocs.northtyneside.gov.uk/WAM/doc/Appeal%20Decision-227115.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=227115&location=Volume1&contentType=application/pdf&pageCount=1&appid=1001

Great news for the station and the area - common sense prevails for once! Hopefully this will make the TRA think twice before their next Canute-esque luddite campaign against progress.

This maybe of some interest to some of you.

http://edocs.northtyneside.gov.uk/WAM/doc/Appeal%20Decision-227115.pdf?extension=.pdf&id=227115&location=Volume1&contentType=application/pdf&pageCount=1&appid=1001

Wow, fabulous report! Completely demolishes the council's reasons for rejection. Mind you, the council's argument was total bollocks anyway - they were basically catering to the vocal, highly organised nimby tw*ts rather than using sound judgement and analysis.

.
^^ The Journal's confirmation of recent posts . . .

Tynemouth Metro Station plan, given go ahead
by Stephen Cape, The Journal, March 16th 2011

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/mar2011/9/2/tynemouth-metro-image-2-816653191.jpg

A MULTI-MILLION pound development at a historic Metro station is to go ahead, despite a major public campaign against the scheme.

The plan for Tynemouth Metro Station, which was originally rejected by North Tyneside Council, includes a single-storey supermarket measuring 1,400 square metres.

Developers Station Developments Ltd won an appeal against that decision and now the council has decided not to challenge the verdict of a Government planning inspector.

In a letter seen by The Journal, a senior council official wrote “there is no reasonable prospect of successfully appealing against the decision of the Secretary of State” .

But Labour MP for Tynemouth Alan Campbell said “there was great disappointment” that the council looked like giving up on a fight by some residents to stop the plan going ahead. He criticised the council for “rolling over” and called on the local authority to publicly publish the legal advice behind the decision.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/03/16/tynemouth-metro-station-plan-given-go-ahead-61634-28345184/#ixzz1GlJKlmRq

But on the main street in Tynemouth, a shop manager, who did not want to be named, predicted a new supermarket would result in job losses at his store.

“I cannot see any other outcome in the village,” he said


How on earth can a second supermarket be a greater threat than one right next door to his shop, the Co-Op? And in terms of items sold, I don't know of a single Front Street shop that would compete with a small supermarket anyway.

That this owner still decribes Tynemouth as a "village" says to me he's just another delusional NIMBY.

How on earth can a second supermarket be a greater threat than one right next door to his shop, the Co-Op? And in terms of items sold, I don't know of a single Front Street shop that would compete with a small supermarket anyway.

That this owner still decribes Tynemouth as a "village" say to me he's just another delusional NIMBY.

Maybe he's the manager of the Co-Op.

Full steam ahead to restore
Tynemouth Metro station to glory
by Chris Knox, The Journal, May 27th 2011

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/tynemouth-station-357921053.jpg
Work is under way to refurbish and restore Tynemouth Station

RESTORATION work has begun on one of the North East’s most striking train stations, which will include the preservation of a Victorian cast iron canopy.

Following preliminary preparatory work to remove asbestos roof sheets and trim back trees, the final phase of demolition work at Tynemouth Metro station has commenced.

The Metro will continue to operate at the station throughout the project, while the popular Tynemouth Markets are also to continue every weekend.

Mansell Construction, which has a regional base in Gateshead, has been awarded the contract by station owners Station Developments Ltd to undertake the 53-week programme, which will include inserting panels of tinted glass into the repaired cast iron structure while also creating a performance area on the platform to increase the station’s use as a visitor attraction.

The main structural work is confined to the east platforms, where some sections of the dilapidated canopies will be removed for specialist offsite restoration.

The remaining areas will be preserved and restored on site, to match the work carried out during the partial restoration of the station in the late 80s.


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/construction-in-north-east//2011/05/27/full-steam-ahead-to-restore-tynemouth-metro-station-to-glory-51140-28770445/?campaign=Newcastle_email_nebusinessemail:20110527

As an unashamed nibmy - shame this is going ahead. It will kill the Co-op in Front Street which will be converted into another bar or eatery now. The only hope is that the supermakret is some sort of quality outfit - Something unattractives to chavs.

Having seaid that. It will be handy for that late night pint of milk :-}

I was at Tynemouth Market today, in the re-furbished part of Tynemouth Station.

It was good to see signs of work starting on the rest of the station, so I took a couple of photos of 'one end' the station (there seems to be a similar area at the other end) where work has now started . . .


From inside the Market Area, the cordened off part at one end, where work has started . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/TynemouthStation-11thJune2011001.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/TynemouthStation-11thJune2011002.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/TynemouthStation-11thJune2011003.jpg

http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/TynemouthStation-11thJune2011004.jpg

Looking back towards the Market Area . .
http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/manorpark_photos/Newcastle%203/TynemouthStation-11thJune2011005.jpg

Forgive my ignorance.

Is the supermarket plan for the station actually happening? I see the station's being refurbed.

Is there a company lined up to take it over?

And one last question, when will it all be finished?

Cheers

Dan.

Forgive my ignorance.

Is the supermarket plan for the station actually happening? I see the station's being refurbed.

Is there a company lined up to take it over?

And one last question, when will it all be finished?

Cheers

Dan.

Hi Dan

1. Yes, - this from the Journal of March 2011:

The plan for Tynemouth Metro Station, which was originally rejected by North Tyneside Council, includes a single-storey supermarket measuring 1,400 square metres.

Developers Station Developments Ltd won an appeal against that decision and now the council has decided not to challenge the verdict of a Government planning inspector.

Read More http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/03/16/tynemouth-metro-station-plan-given-go-ahead-61634-28345184/#ixzz1VrROsK7Y

2. Rumoured on this thread earlier to be Waitrose.

3. I suspect that the refurbishment will be finished or very close to before there is any work on the Supermarket.

Hi Dan

1. Yes, - this from the Journal of March 2011:

The plan for Tynemouth Metro Station, which was originally rejected by North Tyneside Council, includes a single-storey supermarket measuring 1,400 square metres.

Developers Station Developments Ltd won an appeal against that decision and now the council has decided not to challenge the verdict of a Government planning inspector.

Read More http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/03/16/tynemouth-metro-station-plan-given-go-ahead-61634-28345184/#ixzz1VrROsK7Y

2. Rumoured on this thread earlier to be Waitrose.

3. I suspect that the refurbishment will be finished or very close to before there is any work on the Supermarket.

Gahh, I'm hoping for a Tesco! Waitrose would be too expensive.

Gahh, I'm hoping for a Tesco! Waitrose would be too expensive.

Demographics fit though :)

Waitrose attracts a more affluent, upmarket, older customer base than its rivals and is not the cheapest of supermarkets. Independent pricing survey The Grocer 100 shows that an average basket of 100 items costs £192.14 in Waitrose, compared with £174.23 at Morrisons.

Source: http://www.propertyweek.com/news/demographic-detail/3058422.article

Cheers Steve.

Update from the News Guardian @ http://www.newsguardian.co.uk/news/local/restoration_of_station_is_still_on_track_1_3807939

http://www.newsguardian.co.uk/webimage/npgg3811_station_canopies_1_1_3807937!image/3534399156.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_595/3534399156.jpg
Morris Muter, of Station Developments Ltd, and Mike Steele, of Mansell Construction Services, examine the newly returned metalwork as it is returned to its original location at Tynemouth Station.

Restoration of station is still on track
Published on Saturday 24 September 2011 11:26

HISTORIC iron canopies have been reinstalled at Tynemouth Metro station as refurbishment work continues.

Part of the cast iron canopy at the grade II-listed station have been put back in place.

Work on the Victorian station began in March and has seen several sections of the dilapidated canopies on the east platforms being removed for specialist repairs off site, but they have now been put back.

Mansell Construction Services is continuing with preservation work on the canopies that did not need to be removed, as well as repairs to stonework, leading, roofing and gutters.

Staff from the firm have also painted the west platform and are currently painting the main concourse on the east platform.

Once all the restored canopies are in place, individually measured glass panels will be inserted.

A performance area on the platform will also be created.

Much of the restoration work is taking place at night to avoid disruption to Metro services.

The rescue package was co-ordinated by North Tyneside Council, English Heritage, Nexus and the site’s owner, Station Development.

The bill for the work is £3.68m, £1.9m of which has been put up by the governmen

Tynemouth Station artwork is part of restoration
by Tony Henderson, The Journal, October 18th 2011


A JOURNEY of discovery for artist Kimberley Gaiger ends at Tynemoth Metro station tonight. Her artwork in the enclosed bridge over the tracks at Tynemouth station will be launched at an event which ties in with the regeneration of the 1882 complex.

The artwork, titled 'Transitions: from Here to There', will be in place until the middle of next month and includes 3,000 mainly Metro tickets.

The exhibition is supported by North Tyneside Council as part of cultural and community programme taking place in Tynemouth Station, in the lead-up to the completion of its restoration which is scheduled for April.

Meanwhile, work which began in March to restore the Grade II-star listed station has reached a milestone with the start of a huge jigsaw operation to re-glaze restored cast iron roof canopies.

Around half of the dilapidated canopies on the East platforms which had to be removed for specialist offsite repair and restoration have now been returned and are being erected.

Mansell is also working on repairs to stonework, leadwork, roofing and gutters and is repainting the station in the original London & North Eastern Railway cream and green colour scheme.

Morris Muter, managing director of Station Developments, said: “The return of the worst condition canopies, now restored and being put back into place, is a great achievement. The station is starting to take shape into what it will soon become, one of the finest examples of a Victorian railway station in Britain.”


Read More (Two Pages) - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2011/10/18/tyneside-metro-artwork-reflects-a-world-of-travel-61634-29612489/#ixzz1b7KZ3XvR

.

Walked past this 'artwork' on Sunday - looks like something a 5 year old has produced at school.

Walked past this 'artwork' on Sunday - looks like something a 5 year old has produced at school.

I think its fine for what it is. But art being art is in the eye of the beholder and all that.

The space in the bridge is a great location for installations - and the whole point of art is that sometimes some people think its crap - other times some people love it.

Nice to have a chance to see something a bit different going to and from work.

And it works - it's got us talking about it which is often my arugment to people about the Baltic. You don't have to like it.

What was the space used for originally - Some sort of greenhouse?

I think its fine for what it is. But art being art is in the eye of the beholder and all that.

The space in the bridge is a great location for installations - and the whole point of art is that sometimes some people think its crap - other times some people love it.

Nice to have a chance to see something a bit different going to and from work.

And it works - it's got us talking about it which is often my arugment to people about the Baltic. You don't have to like it.

What was the space used for originally - Some sort of greenhouse?

Hi Dan

According to "Full Steam Ahead For Tynemouth - Memories of the Station and the Village" - compiled by Val White the 'third bridge' was used to handle trolleys and goods, being reached by platform lifts at either end. Members of the public were not permitted to use this thoroughfare.

The lifts have long since been removed.

Hi Dan

According to "Full Steam Ahead For Tynemouth - Memories of the Station and the Village" - compiled by Val White the 'third bridge' was used to handle trolleys and goods, being reached by platform lifts at either end. Members of the public were not permitted to use this thoroughfare.

The lifts have long since been removed.


Hi Steve.

Really? I'll have to look for pix of that. The lift gear may still be there. Theres a wheel thing buries into the wall in the West entrance. Obvioulsy put there for display rather than its original loacation.

Dan.

Hi Steve.

Really? I'll have to look for pix of that. The lift gear may still be there. Theres a wheel thing buries into the wall in the West entrance. Obvioulsy put there for display rather than its original loacation.

Dan.

Hi Dan

Have been looking for photographs of it and haven't had any success - I assume the lift entrances must have been in the side (platform side) of the stairs. Will have to take a look the next time I pay a visit to the Sunday Market. Also read that there was also a Goods Lift to the South of the main Tynemouth Village entrance.

No, the bay platform at North Shields was built by the Metro and did not exist in BR days. It was the terminus of the original Blue Line from St James when the Metro first opened. I don't remember any trains regularly terminating at North Shields in immediate pre-Metro days. Most trains went all the way round but a few finished at Tynemouth or Monkseaton.

If Tesco (or whoever - but probably Tesco) put a bit more cash into the Tynemouth Station refurb, they could re-open the platform 3 terminus which would literally be outside their door in the new store. They could then have their name plastered all over the station and even on the destination board on the front of the Metro cars themselves.

A horrible idea, but i'm just bowing to the inevitable......

If Tesco (or whoever - but probably Tesco) put a bit more cash into the Tynemouth Station refurb, they could re-open the platform 3 terminus which would literally be outside their door in the new store. They could then have their name plastered all over the station and even on the destination board on the front of the Metro cars themselves.

A horrible idea, but i'm just bowing to the inevitable......

They could reopen the bay platform quite easily, but there wouldn't be anything to use it unless it was decided to increase the frequency around the Coast line say during peak hours.

If Tesco (or whoever - but probably Tesco) put a bit more cash into the Tynemouth Station refurb, they could re-open the platform 3 terminus which would literally be outside their door in the new store. They could then have their name plastered all over the station and even on the destination board on the front of the Metro cars themselves.
Love to see that happen. I actually drive 'em, and used to do the North Shields shorts to the North Shields Bay platform, and always thought it would be far more sensible to run to Tynemouth at the spare platform there. One small crossover, and you could run smoothly into and out of.
Incidentally, at the other end I noticed they removed an old signal post. It was a REALLY old one from the looks.
Hey - how do you add a pic ?

Hey - how do you add a pic ?
.


In the INDEX thread at the top of the forum, if you look under "P" for Photos, you will see links to a couple of posts that explain how to do that.

For simplicity, I have copied the mentioned links from the Index Thread, below . . .

How to "insert/attach" photos into posts on this forum
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=63757909&postcount=2094
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=73783469&postcount=1042
.

.
There are some interesting discussions about TYNEMOUTH STATION currently going on, on the 'Tyne & Wear Metro' thread, so I have copied some of them below, just for 'information' . . .


The buildings that used to be Tynemouth station are still there, the tunnel that takes a sharp left into Tynemouth these days used to terminate there I think
* I stand corrected. Apparently it was. I'd always thought it ran from North Shields to the old Tynemouth Station. Which was the ORIGINAL Tynemouth, just as Monkseaton station used to be where the park is now behind it.

The Newcastle and North Shields Railway (NNSR) opend on 20 June 1839. It was extended to Tynemouth on 29 March 1847. Part of the old station in Oxford Street still exists.

The Blyth and Tyne Railway (BTR) opened their first Tynemouth station in 1861 on Tynemouth Road next to the Lodge public house. The line was diverted to a new station across the road from the NNSR one (where the TA depot now is) in 1865. While the new line was being constructed a temporary Tynemouth station was opened on Mariners Lane. This continued in use renamed North Shields when the new Tynemouth station was opened and the original North Shields (isolated by the diversion) became North Shields Terminus.

So from 1865 until 1882 there were three stations called North Shields simultaneously in operation: (the present) North Shields (NNSR), North Shields Terminus (BTR) and North Shields (BTR) and two Tynemouth stations (NNSR and BTR).

In 1882 with the exception of North Shields (NNSR) all these were closed to passengers and replaced by the present Tynemouth station. Tynemouth (NNSR) became a goods station and remained in use as a coal yard until the 1970s. I think some track remained until the 1980s possibly in connection with the construction of the Metro. Tynemouth (BTR) was totally abandoned and subsequently built over. North Shields (BTR) was abandoned and subsequently dismantled (although I seem to be remember its site was identifiable in the 1970s and possibly still is). North Shields Terminus (BTR) latterly reverting to Tynemouth (Blyth and Tyne) was a coal depot until 1971 and the last buildings were possibly demolished as late as the 1990s.


The original Tynemouth station building still exists and there is a plaque on the side of it.

Which (http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:First_Tynemouth_Station_Plaque_-_geograph.org.uk_-_566309.jpg) slightly confusingly but correctly points out that the station was actually opened by the Newcastle and Berwick Railway which had absorbed the Newcastle and North Shields Railway in 1845.

Cool. Thanks for the heads up on that.

I have loads of quesitons about the old Tynemouth Stations.

Where was the entrance on Mariner's Lane? I guess by the boys club to the back of the Alms houses? Love to see photos.

Also I never understood either of the old stations.

The Oxford street site is well above the level of the railway lines. Were the planforms in the cuttings? I just can't see how a railway got there.

Also the goods station - Mariners Lane station or whatever it was called, which is now Hazeldene Court next to the Tynemouth Lodge pub. How did that work? I snuck into it one night as a kid in about 1990 (OK I was 19) and remember a platform and remains of track. I was a bit drunk at the time though.

But again how did this station work? It is over the road from the railway line and on different levels to the Metro track and the disused track that used to connect at the Southern end of the 1882 Tynemouth station.

I just can't get my head round how all this worked.

Anyuone got pix, old maps?

Dan

Cool. Thanks for the heads up on that.

I have loads of quesitons about the old Tynemouth Stations.

Where was the entrance on Mariner's Lane? I guess by the boys club to the back of the Alms houses? Love to see photos.

Also I never understood either of the old stations.

The Oxford street site is well above the level of the railway lines. Were the planforms in the cuttings? I just can't see how a railway got there.

Also the goods station - Mariners Lane station or whatever it was called, which is now Hazeldene Court next to the Tynemouth Lodge pub. How did that work? I snuck into it one night as a kid in about 1990 (OK I was 19) and remember a platform and remains of track. I was a bit drunk at the time though.

But again how did this station work? It is over the road from the railway line and on different levels to the Metro track and the disused track that used to connect at the Southern end of the 1882 Tynemouth station.

I just can't get my head round how all this worked.

Anyuone got pix, old maps?

Dan

Remember the station off Mariners Lane was abandoned in 1882. I have never seen a photo of it nor come across any record of its design or plan. However I have a vague memory of seeing remains of a platform in the 1960s.

I don't quite understand what you mean about the level of the track in Oxford Street. The track here was just a direct continuation of what is now the Metro line from North Shields. When the 1882 station was built this was swung to the north under Tynemouth Road into the new (and present) station (which it is true is indeed at a lower level).

The station in what is now Hazeldene Court was originally the terminus of the Blyth and Tyne Railway from Monkseaton and Blyth. This ran due north along the edge of what is now Tynemouth Golf Course (Algernon Terrace). This was abandoned in 1882 from the point south of where it had previously crossed King Edward Road. From then until closure in 1971 it was accessed by a curve from the south end of the west platform at the (present = 1882) station, the former track to Monkseaton having become long sidings. There was never any connection with the track on the other side of Tynemouth Road.

I just can't get my head round how all this worked.

Anyuone got pix, old maps?

Dan

Here are a couple of map scans Dan - 1898 and 1913 which may help or may simply cloud the situation as they don't precisely overlap in area but do show the end of the line at Oxford Street :)

http://www.fototime.com/6AC6438A7528E76/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/EA1607D7BB40A71/orig.jpg

Thank you Steve. The second map shows clearly the original NNSR/NBR Tynemouth station of 1847 in the bottom right (complete with a Royal Station Hotel). It can also be seen that this is at a higher level than the present (1882) station.

It also shows the connection (centre) between the 1882 station (which used part of the 1864/5 Blyth and Tyne extension) to the retained portion of the line abandoned from that date north of King Edward Road. The original Tynemouth (later North Shields Terminus) station just appears on both maps as 'coal depot'.

The temporary Tynemouth station of 1864/5 later renamed North Shields is possibly indicated by the dotted lines just past the junction deviating from the original 1861 line (that's where I remember being shown what were claimed to be remains of its platform). There does not seem to be any access from Mariners Lane shown (though the map is from 30 odd years after it closed). It is possible that it was reached through the Terminus and that they were in effect operated as a single station.

Chhers for that. Sort of makes sense now. To think I grew up in the area and had such a lack of knowledge.

Its funny to think the house I lived in as a Kid was built in 1901 - most of the tracks round there had been out of use for nearly 20 years by the time they were built.

I guess the tracks at Oxford Street were there before the cutting was made for what is now the Metro line.

I vaguely remember in the early 80s the area round Oxford St was still used for coal or something. There were hoppers there, but I am guessing no train tracks. I didn't pay much attention to things like that back then, more is the pity.

I do remember when the plans were announced to convert the remains of Oxford Street into the old folks home houses and flats. Not everyone was in favour of it I recall.

If only they had Google Earth back then.

So was there once a level crossing across King Edward Road at some point?

I guess the tracks at Oxford Street were there before the cutting was made for what is now the Metro line.


Yes. The line into Oxford Street was opened in 1847. What is now the Metro dates from 1882.



I vaguely remember in the early 80s the area round Oxford St was still used for coal or something. There were hoppers there, but I am guessing no train tracks. I didn't pay much attention to things like that back then, more is the pity.


So do I. Some books say the Oxford Street station closed in 1959, but this is probably when it stopped being Tynemouth Goods Station and became (as I recall) a quite large coal depot replacing smaller yards on the Tyneside loop. I don't know when this was closed as I was living away from Shields in the 1970s but i am sure there was still track in the yard almost until the Metro opened.



So was there once a level crossing across King Edward Road at some point?

I don't know. The elevation of the former trackbed in front of Algernon Terrace would suggest so though.

Shame there is no photo record, but there you are.

I lived in Denwick Terrace and when we moved there in the early 80s there were still people around who remembered the place when it was newish back when they were kids. For many years there were fields West of Brislee Ave up to Mariners lane which was bounderied by the then disused tracks.

Truly fascinating stuff.

I guess that whole development sprang up because of the station. A kind of Tyneside Metroland.

Transport seems to have been so much better then.

I wonder if big mainline trains ever came to Tynemouth. Perhaps seaside specials or mail trains. Am I right in thinking Tynemouth Station (1882) was some sort of post depot?

Dan.

I can't post the image probably because I am on an ipad, but if you look on Google Earth you can still see the track bed and the remains of sleeper marks on the eastern edge of the golf course.

Dan.

I thought the reason that Tynemouth station was so big was because it shifted the fish from the North Shields quay.

Tynemouth Station in a sense is one big optical illusion. It looks like a mainline station but was really simply a stop on a commuter line. The central tracks which looked like they were for passing fast trains were in fact access lines to the old Blyth and Tyne coal depots. The north bay platforms were intended for services to Blyth, Morpeth and Seaton Sluice which never really developed. The south bays handled a certain amount of fish and parcels traffic. Very few passenger trains started or finished at Tynemouth.

That said Tynemouth handled large summer crowds heading for the beach - hence the large 'circulating area' - and a few summer specials and excursions from Scotland and elsewhere on the NER/LNER. The latter usually also ran to Whitley Bay so used the main platforms between electric trains.

I understand that most Riverside Line trains terminated at Tynemouth, with some going on to Monkseaton, or around the loop back to Manors.

I understand that most Riverside Line trains terminated at Tynemouth, with some going on to Monkseaton, or around the loop back to Manors.

The Riverside branch never had that many trains. There was a two hourly service until about 1910, then a hourly one until the early 1940s and thereafter a less regular service. I have timetables from the 1950s and 1960s when the service was reduced to only a few trains a day. All of these show only one early morning train a day in each direction starting or finishing at Tynemouth. It's not the same train because the departure from Tynemouth is before the train in the other direction arrives. Nor do the timetables show these trains arriving from or departing to anywhere else which leads me to believe they arrived or departed as empty stock from the car sheds at South Gosforth in which case they would not have used the bay platforms. Indeed given the location of the car sheds there would have been little point in starting or finishing trains at Tynemouth on any regular basis.

Incidentally the summer 1952 timetable shows a Saturdays only through train from Tynemouth to Glasgow calling at Whitley Bay and then running via Bedlington and Morpeth, but this has no corresponding arrival and the train would have travelled empty from Heaton and used the through platform at Tynemouth. Interestingly the weekly train from Glasgow appears to have come via Newcastle and Wallsend and so reached Tynemouth before terminating at Whitley Bay which meant it was appearing to arrive in the same direction as the departing train would leave in.

For those interested in Tynemouth Station - this photographs from circa 1910 from the City Libraries Archive Collection @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/newcastlelibraries/4080748425/

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2582/4078096775_4e5bf6f5f4_o.jpg

and from the same source @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/newcastlelibraries/4079171186/

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2737/4079171186_dfe2641860_o.jpg

From http://www.flickr.com/photos/newcastlelibraries/4078406587/

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2724/4078406587_8dcda5b603_o.jpg

From http://www.flickr.com/photos/newcastlelibraries/4079047976/ - notice the large Finlays kiosk!

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2704/4079047976_dd043142d1_o.jpg

Its not really changed much Steve. Apart from the first shot - the canopy looks very different.

No clues in the bridge picture of that lift you mentioned. I've had a good look on the way home from work and I can't work out where it was, or if there is any evidence of it today.

Dan

For those interested in Tynemouth Station - this photographs from circa 1910 from the City Libraries Archive Collection @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/newcastlelibraries/4080748425/

Wonderful pictures. It's interesting to see a large notice board for the rival Midland Railway in the last one.

I have been trying to establish whether platform numbers were ever displayed at Tynemouth (it had eight platforms). I can't see any here.

.

Its not really changed much Steve. Apart from the first shot - the canopy looks very different.

No clues in the bridge picture of that lift you mentioned. I've had a good look on the way home from work and I can't work out where it was, or if there is any evidence of it today.

Dan

Yes Dan, would be good to get hold of some early plans for the station - can but hope :)

I had a wander round just now. It was dark but the shots of the railings and barriers got me wonering if there was any trace. You can clearly see where they were marked out on the floor quite clearly.

Perhaps the National Railway Museum at York would have plans.

I had a wander round just now. It was dark but the shots of the railings and barriers got me wonering if there was any trace. You can clearly see where they were marked out on the floor quite clearly.

Perhaps the National Railway Museum at York would have plans.

When the Metro moved in to convert the station some of the barriers were used to form the Complusory Ticket Zone, especially on the North Shields bound platform.

especially on the North Shields bound platform.[/QUOTE]

:-)

Eight platforms? Were there any other destinations except Newcastle Central Station to warrant so many platforms?

Eight platforms? Were there any other destinations except Newcastle Central Station to warrant so many platforms?

Buna Ziua

This has been much discussed. There were three bay platforms at each end. Those at the north were probably intended for services to Blyth and Morpeth which in practice reversed at Monkseaton. Those at the south for Riverside branch trains which in practice tended to continue round the circle. The ones at the south saw a certain amount of fish traffic and the odd terminating train. I doubt if those at the north end ever saw enough traffic to have justified their construction.

Any word yet on the Metro station supermarket at Tynemouth?

I am hoping for a Waitrose....having recently acquired property in the parish all of a sudden I have an eye on how the area is doing. :-)

Any word yet on the Metro station supermarket at Tynemouth?

I am hoping for a Waitrose....having recently acquired property in the parish all of a sudden I have an eye on how the area is doing. :-)

Well it looks like Tynemouth Stations restoration is almost complete and a marvellous job they have done of it. So I would imagine that once that piece of work is over we may see some progress on the supermarket front.

Well it looks like Tynemouth Stations restoration is almost complete and a marvellous job they have done of it. So I would imagine that once that piece of work is over we may see some progress on the supermarket front.

Yes it does look good. I almost lament the end of some of the decay which was sort of historic in its own right. The Blue pillars I gess date from the BR days. The blanked out canopy glass was - I was told - World War II blackout.

The new green and white colour scheme. I assume that is an old railway colour. LNER?

What are they going to do with all that space now? Someoen on here said a while back that Tynemouth station is a big of an optical illusion, but it stil is huge. I guess it was the poshest and grandest station on the line when opened. A station worthy of a much bigger town.

If only I had known it in the glory days. Nipped down to the station, got a ticket to Kings Cross or whatever.

Someoen on here said a while back that Tynemouth station is a big of an optical illusion, but it stil is huge. I guess it was the poshest and grandest station on the line when opened. A station worthy of a much bigger town.



An optical illusion in the sense that it looked like a large main line junction but was really a suburban through station with a large circulating area for when the weather attracted crowds to the coast.

I took these photographs of the ongoing restoration of Tynemouth Station on 5th April 2012 - cannot be too long before completion.

Managed to take a photograph of where the lift for the third passageway on the foot bridge used to be - indicative of the different girder sytles perhaps?

All photographs courtesy of www.steve-ellwood.org.uk and more can be seen @ http://www.fototime.com/inv/E46B6D88C74EFF8

Former Lift Space:
http://www.fototime.com/CDA52E6ECA3E205/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/36A7CEAC506B1F2/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/6215E6D2084B071/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/A64B11F34345CD1/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/ACDF04F46CF4365/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/09DDB8CFDBEE6EB/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/2C01632277B7B0C/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/3ED898F1A73701E/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/E38E3647774BCDF/orig.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/47169712FE93A9A/orig.jpg

Some great pictures there Steve, thanks for posting them.

It's great seeing all of Tynemouth station now staring instead of half of it just left lying around rusting. It's also nice to see some glass being used rather than black cover up boards or missing or even wired glass.

When I was little and sometimes used to get on the Metro via the coast I always felt disappointed that the cast iron pets were just lying around and half the station was pretty much just left half built.

Now if only they would get rid of those horrible tacky white PVC sheds.

Some great pictures there Steve, thanks for posting them.

It's great seeing all of Tynemouth station now staring instead of half of it just left lying around rusting. It's also nice to see some glass being used rather than black cover up boards or missing or even wired glass.

When I was little and sometimes used to get on the Metro via the coast I always felt disappointed that the cast iron pets were just lying around and half the station was pretty much just left half built.

Now if only they would get rid of those horrible tacky white PVC sheds.

Of course restoration is only half the job - the other half is the maintenance of the restored fabric, so lets hope there are plans and a financial contingency to make sure that in another 50 years it isn't back to its ruinous state.

I assumed the "PVC sheds" were offices bringing in some income?

Of course restoration is only half the job - the other half is the maintenance of the restored fabric, so lets hope there are plans and a financial contingency to make sure that in another 50 years it isn't back to its ruinous state.

I assumed the "PVC sheds" were offices bringing in some income?I think they are still being used. I think one was or is still being used as library and another is some sort of social services provided by the council.

You don't need horrible tacky structure like them though to bring in income, surely their is a better way of creating a wall.

I think they are still being used. I think one was or is still being used as library and another is some sort of social services provided by the council.

You don't need horrible tacky structure like them though to bring in income, surely their is a better way of creating a wall.

Found this @ http://admin.joneslanglasalle.wai.co.uk/img/commercial_pdf_ks26547_1.pdf

The subject accommodation is positioned within Tynemouth Station, accessed via the pedestrian entrance from Station Mews. The accommodation is made up of a range of individual offices of varying sizes which overlook the platform and accessed via a single corridor. The self-contained accommodation incorporates separate male and female toilet facilities.

The accommodation is available by way of a new lease for a term of years to be agreed at a rent of £27,500 per annum. It is possible to let the offices in part and we are happy to discuss such enquiries.

Those picture solve the lift mystery Steve. And when you look, it is so obvious.

Wow that looks stunning, what will the space be used for? Would make a great space for an extended market.

Wow that looks stunning, what will the space be used for? Would make a great space for an extended market.It's going to be a small supermarket.

Wow that looks stunning, what will the space be used for? Would make a great space for an extended market.

Well fingers crossed that the Station will now be allowed to host more than just markets, hopefully it will be employed to provide space for exhibitions and events. After all its all under cover now :)

It's going to be a small supermarket.


Has anyone seen any plans for the proposed supermarket?

Has anyone seen any plans for the proposed supermarket?Actually on 2nd thoughts I maybe wrong and the supermarket maybe at the North end of the station opposite Knots flats.

I think the plans were on the application.

Actually on 2nd thoughts I maybe wrong and the supermarket maybe at the North end of the station opposite Knots flats.

I think the plans were on the application.

This is what the News Guardian had to say back in October 2009 @ http://www.newsguardian.co.uk/news/local/supermarket_plan_for_old_site_1_1598673

If the plans are approved the village could see a 1,500 square metre supermarket – bigger than the Netto store in North Shields – built on derelict grassland just south of Tynemouth Station, with 67 parking spaces to help the store compete directly with North Tyneside's Morrisons supermarkets.

Some 25 jobs are expected to be created at the store although it has not yet been confirmed which retailer will occupy the new space.

Commuters and motorists will access the supermarket – likely to be open from 6am until 11pm every day – from the A193 Tynemouth Road.

The proposal is part of the 10 million redevelopment plans for the historic station that were announced last month, which will also see the restoration of the canopies, a new library, caretaker's office, new public toilets, public meeting rooms and a tourist information centre.

The current library on Front Street will be moved to a new building to the north of the station, along with a new community centre.

For some strange reason I cannot seem to find anything on the North Tyneside Planning Portal?

For some strange reason I cannot seem to find anything on the North Tyneside Planning Portal?

http://idoxpublicaccess.northtyneside.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=KPFTVOBH08700

If I understand the plans correctly the supermarket will be built on the demolished bay platforms at the south end of the station.

.

Tynemouth's wonderful welcome is back on the rails

Work is nearly finished on the restoration of a station
which was once so sumptuous that it formed a destination
in itself.

Helen Nugent (http://www.guardian.co.uk/profile/helen-nugent) celebrates

http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/online/2012/4/15/1334503452027/Tynemouth-Station-002.jpg

A delicate web of brightly ornamented iron and glass -
Tynemouth Station in its newly-renovated splendour.
Photograph: Courtesy of North Tyneside council

It is a monument to the age of steam, a gateway to the breathtaking
beaches of the North East and an architectural achievement that has
stood firm for 130 years.

Now the long-neglected railway station at Tynemouth (http://www.tynemouth.org.uk/) is receiving the
loving touch that it deserves.

A multi-million pound renovation project promises to return the Victorian (http://www.thetrams.co.uk/tyneandwear/stations/Tynemouth)
station (http://www.thetrams.co.uk/tyneandwear/stations/Tynemouth) to its former glory. Close to completion, the transformation of
Tynemouth station is, according to the council and planners, a "true tale of
a heritage phoenix rising from the ashes".

Steve Bishop, arts, tourism and heritage manager at North Tyneside council (http://www.northtyneside.gov.uk/), says:The only barrier to restoration over the past 20 years was
funding. Now we have found about £2 million from the
Government combined with other contributions.

The conservation area in Tynemouth has been invested in
before. The station is the last piece in the jigsaw.

The station was built in 1882 by the North Eastern Railway (http://www.ner.org.uk/)
using designs by its chief architect, William Bell (http://www.railwayarchitecture.org.uk/Introduction.htm). His vision is
still clear today: a dazzling array of ironwork and glass, crafted
in the form of glazed canopies that radiate out from the gently
curving track and wide platforms. Once decorated with a rich
display of horticulture, Tynemouth station was a destination in itself.

But the soaring popularity of the motor car, the advent of
cheap foreign holidays and a drop in investment in seaside
resorts contributed to its gradual decline. Although it has
always functioned as a working station, the place fell into
disrepair. The once gleaming canopies were dirty and cracked
while paint peeled from the ornate ironwork.
http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/online/2012/4/15/1334503272013/Tynemouth-Station-002.jpg

Another view of the renovations which will host festivals and market stalls
as well as trains. Courtesy of North Tyneside council

The fall from grace was such that the building was threatened with
demolition in 1986. Following a public campaign, it was finally purchased by
North Tyneside council. Seven years later, the council joined forces with
Millhouse Developments (http://www.millhousedevelopments.co.uk/history.html) to form a joint company – Station Developments (http://www.tynemouth-market.com/station-re-development/).
Together they pledged to complete the station's restoration and
development. That commitment became a reality when money from the
Government's Sea Change programme became available a couple of years ago.

Bishop says:We want to get back to that sense of vibrancy at the station
and restore its place as a gateway to the coast. We want to
encourage people to see the station as a destination once again.

Despite the years of neglect, the faded grandeur of the station failed to
dent its appeal for many local residents. For some years, a thriving market (http://www.tynemouth-market.com/)
has been held at the station every weekend. Six businesses are trading
within station buildings and Tynemouth more widely remains a popular place
for visitors.

Now the council intends to broaden the building's retail and entertainment
potential. It is hoped that additional exhibition and performance space will
attract more people to the station, Tynemouth and the coast. The grand
old - and new - place will be an all-year-round cultural venue for the
region with opportunities for heritage events, fairs and festivals (http://www.guardian.co.uk/culture/festivals).

While the substantive restoration work has now been completed, the
council and local groups are looking forward to a major Diamond Jubilee
event at the station on June 4. A Tyne festival will follow and a number of
other activities. Tynemouth Station is going celebrate its 130th
anniversary in style.


http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/the-northerner/2012/apr/16/newcastle-tynemouth-railway-station-restoration-festivals-markets

Princess Anne re-opens Tynemouth Station
by Sonia Sharma, The Journal, July 3rd 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nejournal/jul2012/9/8/featured-princess-anne-925838691.jpg
The Princess Royal officially opening the newly refurbished Tynemouth Station

AN HISTORIC railway station has been given the royal seal of approval after a £3.6m facelift. Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, unveiled a plaque at Tynemouth Station yesterday to celebrate the completion of a major restoration project at the Grade II* listed structure. The station, opened by the North Eastern Railway in 1882 and now part of the Tyne and Wear Metro, was on the English Heritage buildings at risk register for years but has undergone extensive work which has seen its distinctive glazed canopies restored.

Princess Anne toured the new-look station and spoke to groups involved in the project, congratulating the teams for their efforts before meeting schoolchildren and market traders. Krystyna Dodds and Ian Jones, who run the Curiously Wicked handmade chocolate business in Morpeth and also trade from Tynemouth Market once a month, gave the Princess a chocolate shoe.

The 130-year-old station was revamped thanks to funding from North Tyneside Council, Station Developments Ltd, English Heritage and Nexus. Around £1.9m also came from the Government’s Sea Change programme. More than 4,600 glass panes were installed in the canopies and around 2,400 litres of paint were used during the refurbishment. As well as being a working Metro station and home to the weekend Tynemouth Market, the site aims to provide an all-year venue for exhibitions, heritage events, fairs and festivals.

The work has been supported by groups including The Friends of Tynemouth Station and Tynemouth Village Association.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/07/03/princess-anne-re-opens-tynemouth-station-gallery-61634-31308363/#ixzz1zXpmDQyt

The story of Tynemouth station(s) has recently been added to the Blyth and Tyne (http://www.disused-stations.org.uk/features/blyth_and_tyne/index.shtml) section of the Disused Railways site. (Click on the map.)

Food store and car park set for Tynemouth's
Victorian station
by Iain Laing, The Journal, August 15th 2012

http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/nebusiness/aug2012/0/6/tynemouth-metro-station-509339762.jpg

THE NEXT PHASE of the redevelopment of Tynemouth's Victorian station will create room for a large food store and car park. The Metro station, which is already well known for its weekend markets, has a neighbouring site available for a food store. Planning permission has been granted for a store with gross internal area of 14,197sq ft, together with 67 dedicated car parking spaces and separate service area.

It will be located at the southern end of the station concourse, allowing pedestrian access to commuters, as well as vehicular access from Tynemouth Road. Jonathan Sykes, director at agent Jones Lang Lasalle’s Newcastle office, said: “This is an excellent opportunity to gain representation in the centre of an affluent catchment area with access to Metro commuters and the immediate resident population.

“The scheme can be made ready for occupation within nine months and we are in discussions with a number of potential occupiers.”


Read More - http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/commercial-property-north-east/news/2012/08/15/food-store-and-car-park-set-for-tynemouth-s-victorian-station-51140-31624129/

Is it going to be Waitrose or Marks and Spencers?

Is it going to be Waitrose or Marks and Spencers?


They are not saying at present.

All above article says is . . .

The scheme can be made ready for occupation within nine months and we are in discussions with a number of potential occupiers.”


Could be any of the major supermarkets, any of them at all.

Is it going to be Waitrose or Marks and Spencers?

I work for Waitrose and i've heard no whispers about a new store in the region... The only possibility i heard was the old morrisons store in Morpeth. But thats come to nothing.

It's Tesco's.

It's Tesco's.

Although I've heard rumours of a Tesco for quite a while now, is that actually confirmed?

Whoever gets the plot, it's good to see Tynemouth's chief nimby 'Dr' Joan Harvey and her troops failed to prevent the Sainsbury's local and station development. I'll never forget the delight in reading the central planning office report that absolutely trashed the reasons for objection and overturned NTC.

I've been reading documents from the mid-1980s which show that the PTE then wanted Tynemouth station restored to bring in extra footfall, and help boost patronage. Sad to see it has taken nearly 30 years to reach its full potential, although better late than never.

Although I've heard rumours of a Tesco for quite a while now, is that actually confirmed?

Whoever gets the plot, it's good to see Tynemouth's chief nimby 'Dr' Joan Harvey and her troops failed to prevent the Sainsbury's local and station development. I'll never forget the delight in reading the central planning office report that absolutely trashed the reasons for objection and overturned NTC.No it's not confirmed I'm just going off what I hear really. From what I have heard Waitrose aren't interested in North Tyneside, they have had a few opportunities here and just aren't interested. I also don't think M&S will be either, they are fairly content with their store at Silverlink and even went and closed down a store in Whitley Bay because they felt their needs were covered by the Silverlink store.

I myself have tried to get Sainsbury's interested within the store but each time I was told that it is too close to their Tynemouth Broadway store and it would negatively impact on it. The Coop already have a store just around the corner and another one down the road so that would rule them out. Apart from Tesco's the only other potential stores would be a small Morrison's or Asda and I don't think either of them have started their smaller store expansion since purchasing the former Netto stores.
Oh you may also want to add that Morrison's are pretty much well and truly pissed off at NTC and NCC since the whole allowing Asda to open up on their footstep in Byker which has resulted in them pulling out of the Wallsend supermarket.

Tynemouth Station wins top national award for restoration
by Tony Henderson, The Journal, October 23rd 2012


A BATTLE spanning decades, to restore a listed Victorian railway station, was rewarded yesterday with a national award. Station Developments Ltd was presented with an English Heritage Angel Award for Best Craftsmanship Employed in a Heritage Rescue for its work on Tynemouth Station. A major part of the project involved the restoration of the station’s intricate cast iron glazed roof canopies.

Founded last year by Andrew Lloyd Webber to celebrate the efforts of local people in rescuing their heritage, the winners were announced at a gala ceremony in London’s West End. The award scheme is run by English Heritage and inspired by its Heritage at Risk Register.

The ceremony, held at London's Palace Theatre, was hosted by TV presenter Clare Balding, with Graham Norton, Philip Mould, Culture Minister Ed Vaizey, Melvyn Bragg and Charles Moore presenting the awards. Angels judge Lord Bragg described the Tynemouth project as “a spectacular transformation which will affect so many people’s lives, morning and evening as they go in and out of something wonderful”.


Read More - http://www.journallive.co.uk/north-east-news/todays-news/2012/10/23/tynemouth-station-wins-top-national-award-for-restoration-61634-32084773/#ixzz2A6j5SKsF

I was at Tynemouth Station Book Fair on Sunday and noticed that ground works had begun at the southern end of the Station, The area off Tynemouth Road has been cleared and is being used as a temporary car park.

Some snaps from the day:

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Photographs hosted on http://ellwood.fototime.com/Tynemouth%20Village%20-%20Vol1/Tynemouth%20Market%20-%20Book%20Fair%20-%2021st%20October%202012

Excellent photos, Steve, but do they still have that controversial stall on the northbound platform that sells Nazi memorabilia? A few comments have been raised about this stall on different forums and it does look odd among all the sixties records and old toys to find a whole stall dedicated to the Third Reich.

Excellent photos, Steve, but do they still have that controversial stall on the northbound platform that sells Nazi memorabilia? A few comments have been raised about this stall on different forums and it does look odd among all the sixties records and old toys to find a whole stall dedicated to the Third Reich.

Yes I noticed that particular stall - all sorts of ex forces gear, including a lot of Soviet stuff. Must be a market for it?

Yes I noticed that particular stall - all sorts of ex forces gear, including a lot of Soviet stuff. Must be a market for it?
There is the Soviet and American stall on the southbound platform, but the man with the Nazi memorabilia is at the bottom end of the northbound platform. I suppose for all this is questionable, you could argue someone wanting to make a war film up here would find these stalls useful.

There's a large market for war memorabilia, of all sides. I knew a guy in the Air Force who collected Nazi stuff. Made inspection days kinda interesting when he had a swastika flag pinned to his ceiling and Nazi uniform items in his locker!

There's a large market for war memorabilia, of all sides. I knew a guy in the Air Force who collected Nazi stuff. Made inspection days kinda interesting when he had a swastika flag pinned to his ceiling and Nazi uniform items in his locker!
We have a guy at work who collects all kinds of memorabilia from the war. Also at the station someone sells Vietnam memorabilia, sure beats Whitehaven market.