McLaughlin & Harvey has been appointed to build the Shields Ferry’s new landing at North Shields Fish Quay by operator Nexus.

It marks a major step forward for the multi-million pound project, which will secure the long-term future of the cross-Tyne service.

The new landing will be built at the regenerated North Shields Fish Quay, linking it directly to South Shields town centre and attractions like The Word and Customs House for the first time.

Work is set to start early this year and is scheduled to be completed in 2028.

McLaughlin & Harvey is proud to have been chosen by Nexus to build the new Shields Ferry landing. With extensive expertise in delivering marine infrastructure across the UK and Ireland, we are well positioned to support the continued regeneration of the historic North Shields Fish Quay.

John Mariner, Operations Director at McLaughlin & Harvey

I’m delighted to confirm that we have now appointed a specialist firm to build our new Shields Ferry landing.

Following a detailed tendering process the contract has been awarded to McLaughlin & Harvey, a company which has an outstanding track record in civil engineering and specialist construction projects.

Today’s announcement is a big step forward for the project and is great news for our customers and our workforce. It’s crucial for the long-term sustainability of ferry operations on the Tyne.

Building a new landing at the regenerated North Shields Fish Quay ensures a bright future for the Shields Ferry, which is a vital and much-loved local transport link, one that has great historical significance.

The relocated landing will greatly improve the ferry experience for customers, enhance connectivity to North Shields town centre, and support further redevelopment and regeneration along the Fish Quay.

We’re looking forward to working closely with the team at McLaughlin & Harvey and to get the construction phase underway early next year.

Paul Welford, Major Projects Director at Nexus

A new landing is needed as the current jetty on the north side of the Tyne at Smiths Dock is at the end of its life.

Full funding was confirmed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness in July.

It is hoped that a new ferry landing at North Shields Fish Quay will provide a major boost to the regeneration of the area, better access to jobs for local people and improvements for customers.