Work is underway to transform One Harton Quay into modern student accommodation as part of the exciting relocation of South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School to South Shields town centre.
Situated on the riverside, the striking four-storey glass-fronted building, originally designed to resemble the bow of a ship, will be refurbished to provide high-quality accommodation for students studying at college.
The development will offer comfortable and modern living spaces, including bedrooms arranged in clusters, shared lounges, kitchens and study areas, as well as a staffed reception. While the building’s exterior will remain largely unchanged, extensive internal refurbishment is currently taking place to create a welcoming student environment.
The accommodation forms part of the wider South Tyneside College relocation project, which will see the College move from its current Westoe site to a new state-of-the-art town centre campus. The project is being delivered through a partnership between Tyne Coast College, South Tyneside Council and construction partner Castle.
Together, the new campus and student accommodation will create a connected learning experience, placing students at the heart of South Shields and within easy reach of local amenities, transport links and the riverside.
Dr Lindsey Whiterod CBE, Chief Executive of Tyne Coast College, said:
The start of works at One Harton Quay marks another significant milestone in the transformation of South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School. Providing high-quality student accommodation in the heart of the town will help us create a vibrant, connected campus experience and support learners from across the region and beyond. Alongside the new college building, this development will play a vital role in attracting students, strengthening the local economy and helping to realise our shared vision for the regeneration of South Shields town centre. We are delighted to see progress continuing across both projects as we move closer to welcoming students to an exceptional new learning environment in 2027.
Councillor Dave Royal, Lead Member for Economic Growth, Investment and Regeneration at South Tyneside Council, said:
One Harton Quay is a landmark building on the riverside and it is fantastic to see it being brought back into use. The development will support the wider regeneration of South Shields while creating a modern campus and accommodation offer for students.
Progress is also continuing on the main campus development, with construction work well underway.
The accommodation building will be accessed from King Street via a double-height glass atrium and reception area, with a second entrance on Barrington Street providing a direct link to the new campus.
The new South Tyneside College campus and student accommodation are expected to welcome students from September 2027.
