Masonry firm builds book with skills hub contract

A brickwork contractor has strengthened its order book with an education contract.

Classic Masonry is supporting the renovation of South Shields’ Grade II-listed 16 Barrington Street into a training hub.

Set to become part of a new 15,000sq metre South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School campus, bosses say the firm is delivering upgrades including replacement stone and indents, hood moulds and brickwork and water table repointing.

Built in 1882, the structure was originally the headquarters of the South Shields Poor Law Union.

North Shields-based Classic Masonry was appointed by South Tyneside-based principal contractor Castle.

Classic Masonry also worked with GSS Architecture to carry out initial stonework and brickwork inspections.

Mike Moody, Classic Masonry managing director, said: “This building façade is a very impressive example of articulated late Victorian architecture.”

Chris Meadowcroft, Castle operations director, added: “Classic Masonry is renowned across the UK for its expertise and quality of work and we had no hesitation appointing the company to this project.

“While the build of a new campus in the middle of South Shields is the showpiece of this transformational project, 16 Barrington Street is very much representative of the borough’s proud industrial past and, as such, it is important we protect and enhance the façade of the building.”

The college project is a partnership between Tyne Coast College and South Tyneside Council, and is funded by the college alongside the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.

Dr Lindsey Whiterod, Tyne Coast College chief executive, said: “This restoration is an important part of our vision for the new South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School campus.

“While the new facilities will provide world-class learning environments for our students, it is equally important that we preserve and celebrate the heritage that makes South Shields unique.”

Councillor Dave Royal, South Tyneside Council lead member for economic growth, investment and regeneration, added: “As we create a first-class new home for South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School, it is vital we preserve the character and heritage that make our town unique.

“The specialist skills being brought to this restoration will help ensure this landmark building remains an important part of South Shields for generations to come.”

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.