South Shields set for new flats as plans submitted for Fowler Street development

Proposals for new flats above retail units on a South Shields shopping street have been lodged with town hall development chiefs. An application has been submitted to the planning department of South Tyneside Council for 73 Fowler Street, near South Shields Town Hall.

The building, which is located at the junction of Fowler Street and Winchester Street, houses several ground floor retail units. Fairoaks North East Limited, the developer, has sought 'prior approval' from local authority planners to convert the upper floors of the building into flats.

This includes a change of use from a 'commercial, business and service' planning class to "five single dwelling units". Floor plans provided to council officials reveal two new self-contained flats on the first floor of the building, each featuring one bedroom, a kitchen/living area, a bathroom, and a study in one of the flats.

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The second floor of the building also contains an additional three self-contained flats, each with similar amenities and a study in one of the flats. According to a planning application submitted to council officials, the flats will feature "windows which provide natural ventilation".

Although the site has no on-site parking, developers said the application is in a sustainable location close to public transport links.

The planning application adds: “The main road in front of the property (Fowler Street) is a controlled zone with the road being used regularly for several bus routes.

“The site is in very close proximity to South Shields Metro and bus interchange, both of which are a two-minute walk from the property.

“There is also a public car park further up Fowler Street, which is suitable for car parking for visitors.

“It is clear from the above that the proposed development site has exceptional links with public transport and represents a sustainable form of development in line with national and local planning policies.

“Safe and secure cycle parking storage will be provided for each unit, totalling five cycle spaces. The proposals will not create an impact.”

A decision on the plans will be made by South Tyneside Council following a period of consultation. For more information on the plan, visit the council’s planning portal website and search reference: ST/0659/24/PNCU