Harton Quays Park, the £2.3 million waterfront park in South Shields designed by landscape architects Grant Associates for South Tyneside Council, has now opened to the public.
Harton Quays Park stretches along the River Tyne from South Shields ferry landing to the Customs House theatre and features curved embankments, lawns and colourful planting, a promenade, sheltered gardens and a dramatic pine grove viewing point shaped like the bow of a ship.
The curved ribbon wall made up of 144 precast concrete panels is another unique feature, alongside a stunning water feature and an amphitheatre suitable for open air drama and music.
The park, which was joint-funded by South Tyneside Council and the Homes and Communities Agency, is part of a wider regeneration masterplan for South Shields Riverside.
Harton Quays Park received a "˜Very Good' commendation as part of the CEEQUAL award assessment, thanks to the collaborative efforts of designers working on the scheme, led by Grant Associates and civil engineers, Mott MacDonald.
CEEQUAL is an evidence-based Sustainability Assessment and Awards Scheme for civil engineering, infrastructure, landscaping and the public realm. The award celebrates the achievement of high environmental and social performance.
Peter Chmiel, director, Grant Associates, the landscape architects responsible for the landscape masterplanning of Harton Quays Park said: "We are delighted Harton Quays Park is now open to the local community. It has been rewarding for Grant Associates to work with South Tyneside Council who have been dedicated to ensuring the sustainable aspirations for the park were met.This scheme provides additional amenity to the area, a cultural focus and spaces for events all with an emphasis on promoting biodiversity.
"Harton Quays Park forms a key piece of the on-going regeneration strategy for the area and creates an important re-connection of South Shields town centre to the River Tyne. We are both curious and excited to see the response of the local community throughout the seasons and hope Harton Quays Park is enjoyed for many years to come."
Councillor Michael Clare, Lead Member Regeneration and Economy at South Tyneside Council, said: "Harton Quays Park is already becoming a new Tyneside landmark. With superb design and craftsmanship, it is a fantastic facility for local people and another attraction for the millions of visitors who come to South Tyneside every year.
"The Council has an ambitious vision for regeneration of South Shields town centre, and this is another important step towards making that a reality."
