A new riverside café-bar has opened its doors in South Shields, helping to deliver on residents’ calls for more places to eat, drink and socialise as part of the town centre’s ongoing regeneration.
Ferry View, a container-style venue located at the ferry terminal, is the latest investment in the riverside and Mill Dam area, which was identified in South Tyneside Council’s ‘Our South Shields Conversation’ consultation as a priority location for improvement.
Almost 1,300 people took part in the consultation, with consistent themes emerging around the need for a better food and drink offer, improved green and waterfront spaces, and more opportunities for active travel. Two thirds of people who responded thought the Mill Dam riverside area needed more food and drink options.
Ferry View directly supports those ambitions, offering locally roasted coffee, Dutch-inspired street food and cycle friendly facilities.
The café-bar has also teamed up with The Electric Bike Shed to provide pedal-assist bike hire from the venue, encouraging residents and visitors to explore the North East coastline by bike.
Councillor Margaret Meling, Lead Member for Economic Growth and Transport at South Tyneside Council, said:
“Our masterplan for South Shields was shaped by what people told us in the Our South Shields Conservation consultation.
“You asked for more food and drink venues, a livelier riverside, and more ways to enjoy active travel, and Ferry View is a fantastic example of how we are responding.
“It brings new life to the Mill Dam area, creates a welcoming social space on the waterfront and shows confidence in the exciting regeneration and investment taking place across South Shields.”
Since officially opening on 19th July, Ferry View has quickly established itself as a popular destination for families, walkers, cyclists and visitors enjoying views of the River Tyne.
Hospitality entrepreneur Kenny Coates, who co-owns the business with his father Kenneth Collins, said:
“We’ve been delighted by the response so far. After visiting Amsterdam, I wanted to bring a taste of that café culture here, where people can meet, enjoy great food and drink, and spend more time by the water. It’s brilliant to see so many people embracing it already.”
The venue’s menu includes Dutch fries made with ingredients imported from the Netherlands, a selection of teas and coffees, sweet treats and a range of alcoholic drinks.
Plans are already in place to create an ‘après ski’ style winter experience with heaters and a covered outdoor seating area.
Ferry View adds to the growing list of projects taking shape through the town centre blueprint, which will see significant investment in South Shields’ future and support for new and existing businesses.
You can find more information about Ferry View on their website: The Ferry View
For more information about development opportunities linked to South Shields Town Centre see: South Shields Town Centre – Invest South Tyneside
