For over 30 years, stakeholder groups have campaigned to save the station. Finally in 2010, funding was secured and Mansell's Gateshead team were awarded the prestigious £3 million contract, which had to be delivered with care, skill and consideration.
Works involved the restoration and redecoration of the cast iron canopy and refurbishment works to other areas of the station. During the works, the station remained open for use by the Metro passengers and all commercial outlets within the station carried on their business as usual, as well as the famous weekend markets.
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The team embraced the opportunity to work with North Tyneside Council to involve the local community in the project. They also provided two placements for Young Construction Apprentices from Gateshead College.
Right from the start, they helped the Council engage local artists and school children from three local schools in turning the hoardings, that separated the public and restoration areas, into pieces of temporary public art. This was a huge success and once works were completed, the images drawn by the children were donated to their respective schools. Other events hosted by the team included 'Heritage Open Days', England’s biggest and most popular cultural voluntary event, and 'Gutter Day' which was attended by TVs Dr Jonathan Foyle.
The station will now provide a focus for Arts and Culture for the local community, whilst the ever changing ‘Art in the Bridge’ continues to be displayed.
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