Port of Tyne – one of the UK’s major deep-sea ports – is delighted to support The Word, which sees it sponsor the rolling programme of exhibitions in The Word’s ‘Port of Tyne Exhibition Space’.
The Word will incorporate South Tyneside’s new central library and digital media space and will boast an impressive range of facilities including a computer gaming area, a FabLab with 3D printers and vinyl and laser cutters, digitised archives, meeting rooms, children’s immersive storytelling area, OpenZone IT suite, and café providing stunning views over the river.
Andrew Moffat, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Tyne, said: “The Word is a really significant development for South Tyneside. As a business the Port of Tyne is committed to supporting our local communities and we are delighted to be supporting The Word as part of South Tyneside Council’s 365 vision.
“It is a stunning building which will hopefully inspire people who visit The Word and attract national acclaim. The creation of a national centre for the written word will be a further reason to bring more people to visit South Shields and support further inward investment in the local area.”
Councillor Iain Malcolm, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “The Word will have both regional and national significance and will reinforce South Tyneside’s position as a destination of culture.
“I am delighted that the Port of Tyne is on board – the opening of The Word is a real milestone in the transformation of South Shields town centre.
“Momentum is gathering to create a vibrant, sustainable town centre which will give the private sector the confidence to invest.”
The first major exhibition at The Word sponsored by the Port of Tyne will celebrate the works of acclaimed film director Sir Ridley Scott.
An estimated 500,000 people are expected to visit The Word each year, and as the National Centre for the Written Word – one of the first activities in the learning pod – also sponsored by the Port of Tyne, will be a focus on lost dialects and shipbuilding. The Word is scheduled to open later this month.