Nexus has selected McLaughlin & Harvey to construct a new Shields Ferry landing at North Shields Fish Quay, marking a significant milestone for the multi-million pound scheme to secure the cross-Tyne service's long-term future.

The landing at the regenerated Fish Quay will, for the first time, provide a direct link to South Shields town centre and attractions such as The Word and Customs House. Work is set to start early this year, with completion scheduled for 2028.

John Mariner, Operations Director at McLaughlin & Harvey, said: "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."

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Paul Welford, Major Projects Director at Nexus, said: "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.

"The 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."

The replacement is required because the current jetty on the north side of the Tyne at Smiths Dock has reached the end of its life. Full funding for the project was confirmed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness in July.