The £100 million South Shields town centre regeneration project has reached another important milestone that will boost the local economy and create new jobs.

As the main contractor, B&K and its client Muse Developments, in partnership with South Tyneside Council, are engaged in the regeneration of the town centre.

Matt Crompton, Joint Managing Director of Muse Developments said: “Today marks an important step in the regeneration of South Shields town centre. The Word will be an iconic, state-of-the-art building that sets the bar for the quality of development and architecture that people of South Tyneside deserve.”

“This is just the first stage of the overall regeneration project that will have a positive impact on residents and everyone who visits the town and we are very proud to be partnering with South Tyneside Council in such a bold scheme.”

The Word development forms part of a phased regeneration scheme jointly funded by Muse Developments and South Tyneside Council and is due to open Autumn 2016.

Phase One of the £100m regeneration project is a part of a 10-year master plan. Work is now complete on improvements to the local Market Place, an integral part of the town’s identity.

The regeneration scheme will improve the town’s public spaces to improve internal and external access and connectivity whilst also respecting the rich urban heritage of the town and includes an ample amount of outdoor seating, tree-lined avenues with new level paving accessible to all.

Andy Kinnear, Bowmer & Kirkland’s Construction Director in the North East, said: “Bowmer and Kirkland is delighted to be involved in such a prestigious landmark scheme.

“The building is set to become an iconic feature of the South Shields landscape and we are extremely proud to be involved.”