Swan Hunter yard could be transformed and create 10,000 new jobs

Apr 25 2009 by Adrian Pearson, The Journal

“Added to that, as we all know, is that the Government has pretty much crippled the country with debt and has little cash left, so the big question now is just who will pay for Swan Hunter?”

North Tyneside mayor John Harrison has already promised to transform the face of Tyneside.

He said: “This is the first opportunity we have had in 200 years to really sit down and shape the future for another 200 years.

John Shipley, leader of Newcastle City Council, said: “The North Bank of the Tyne project uses existing and traditional skills in the local workforce to develop the most modern of industries, meeting our future energy needs and potentially bringing a huge boost to employment and our economy.”

A series of masterplans for various elements of the North Bank revamp strategy are currently being worked on and will be made public in the coming months.

A One North East spokesman said: “We are in advanced discussions with North Tyneside Council regarding the future of the Swan Hunter site as part of the wider master planning of the North Bank of the Tyne.

“The council is in negotiations with Swan Hunter about the purchase of the site for development as a prime employment location.

“The council is seeking One North East approval for investment as a contribution towards the purchase of the Swan Hunter site.”