Specialist in stonemasonry and architectural precast concrete, Classic Masonry, has won a contract to undertake works to the grade II listed 16 Barrington Street, South Shields.
Built in 1882, it was originally the headquarters of the South Shields Poor Law Union. Classic Masonry has been appointed by Castle, principal contractor for the relocation of South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School, of which the listed building is a key component.
Established 35 years ago, the company is a specialist masonry and restoration contractor with extensive experience delivering heritage and conservation-led projects across the UK, working on a range of listed and historically significant buildings. Its work focuses on the repair, conservation and sensitive restoration of historic structures, ensuring original architectural features and materials are preserved wherever possible.
The college will create a 15,000 sq. metre campus on King Street, South Shields, to include the renovation and upgrade of 16 Barrington Street.
In the first instance Classic Masonry was engaged by GSS Architecture to conduct an initial inspection and survey of the stonework and brickwork to the listed main elevations of the building.
The company was subsequently appointed by Castle to undertake the works which involved the replacement stone and indents to band and string courses, hood moulds and repointing to deteriorated mortar joints to brickwork and water tables as well as a full steam clean to the building façade.
Chris Meadowcroft, operations director, Castle, said: “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.”
Classic Masonry has delivered work for a vast number of well-known and historically significant buildings across the North East, including Fenwick’s department store in Newcastle, St Mary’s Cathedral in Newcastle, Morpeth Railway Station, Hylton Castle in Sunderland and the Union Chain Bridge in Berwick.
The college project is a partnership between Tyne Coast college and South Tyneside Council and is being delivered by award-winning construction company Castle. It is being funded by Tyne Coast College, the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority as part of North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ drive to revitalise high streets and the Department for Education and UK Government.
Mike Moody, managing director of Classic Masonry said: “It is vital that the repair and replacement of stonework is conducted in a holistic manner to ensure that such interventions will neither undermine the existing structure, nor undermine other necessary interventions.
“This building façade is a very impressive example of articulated late Victorian architecture with an impressive doorway feature designed by J H Morton who was also responsible for several other buildings in the locality including Barclay’s Bank, King Street and extensions to the Old Customs House.”
Dr Lindsey Whiterod CBE, Chief Executive of Tyne Coast College added; “The restoration of 16 Barrington Street 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. The renovation of this historic building ensures that a significant part of the town’s history will continue to play a role in its future.
“We are delighted to see this work progressing and to have specialist partners such as Classic Masonry supporting the project. Their expertise will help ensure the building is restored to the highest standard, creating a campus that combines heritage, innovation and opportunity at the heart of the town centre.
“This development represents a major investment in education, skills and regeneration, and will create an inspiring environment for learners while contributing to the continued revitalisation of South Shields town centre.”
Cllr Dave Royal, Lead Member for Economic Growth, Investment and Regeneration, said: “The college relocation project is transforming South Shields town centre and breathing new life into a historic building that has stood at the heart of our community for more than 140 years.
“As we create a first-class new home for South Tyneside College and South Shields Marine School, it is vital that 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.”
