It’s all happening this summer
BOROUGH HAS CHANGES AND CELEBRATIONS AHEAD
FROM regeneration schemes to popular family events, people can expect to see a string of things happening in North Tyneside this year.
There are set to be a number of changes in some parts of the borough with major refurbishment work going on and new leisure attractions opening.
Whitley Bay is among the towns where residents and visitors will be able to see physical improvements taking shape as the year rolls on.
And preparations are well under way for some of the borough’s most loved annual events, from food festivals and carnivals to music extravaganzas. There will be something for everyone to enjoy.
So here is our list of things to look forward to this summer.
TRAMPOLINE PARKS
These are almost like buses. We have none for ages, then two turn up at the same time. One is due to open at the Benton Business Park, on Whitley Road, Benton, in July. It will be run by Jump 360 and will feature foam pits, airbags, dodgeball courts, slam dunk basketball lanes and jump platforms.
The second one, by Xtreme Bounce, is scheduled to open at the Royal Quays Outlet Centre, in North Shields, by the summer.
WHITLEY BAY REGENERATION
Work has been taking place along the coast for a while now and it’s not going to finish any time soon. But we will be able to see some real changes in 2017.
A new Premier Inn hotel, being built next to the Spanish City Dome, is expected to be completed in June. And the Northern Promenade is being revamped – Watts Slope has been reshaped, paths have been installed between the Links and the promenade, and the gradient has been reduced to create a gentler slope down towards the beach, improving access for wheelchair users.
A permanent ice cream kiosk, run by the Di Meo family, has also been set up at Watts Slope. Meanwhile, improvements will carry on further along the Northern Promenade – the first phase of the whole project is due for completion this summer.
Elsewhere, work to refurbish Central Lower Promenade and strengthen sea defences is under way and all construction work is expected to be complete by winter.
TYNEMOUTH FAKE FESTIVAL
It’s back for a sixth year and will feature tributes to David Bowie, Arctic Monkeys and Guns n Roses as well as local bands, food and a licensed bar. It is taking place on April 29, at Percy Park Rugby Club, from 12.30pm to 11.30pm. For tickets or more information, go to www. fakefestivals.co.uk
NORTH SHIELDS PROPER FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL
More than 60 stalls offering artisan food will be set up in Northumberland Square from April 29 to May 1. There will also be a bar and live entertainment. More details can be found at www.properfoodanddrinkfestivals.co.uk
TYNEMOUTH FOOD FESTIVAL
This will be at Tynemouth Priory and Castle on May 13 and 14 and will feature over 50 stalls. Visitors will get a chance to sample street food from around the world and