As part of the North Tyneside Council’s work to regenerate the borough, it is looking into the possibility of turning three empty properties in North Shields into private housing.
Located in the heart of the town centre on Northumberland Square, the council’s legal team was previously based within the three Grade II listed buildings.
Work will begin in October to remove old furnishings and carry out essential repairs. Surveys will then be carried out to check if the terrace properties are suitable for housing.
If they are, the council hopes there will be potential for a mix of town houses, apartments and maisonettes, along with parking.
North Tyneside Elected Mayor, Norma Redfearn said: “Making sure North Tyneside is a great place to live, work and visit is a priority for the council, which is why we’re investing millions of pounds regenerating areas across the borough.
“The regeneration includes building new housing and transforming empty buildings into lovely homes.
“Northumberland Square is a beautiful area in the heart of North Shields with stunning architecture and Georgian features. I very much hope it will be possible to restore the three buildings on the square back to their original grandeur.”
Surveys are also set to carried out on a car park in between Northumberland Square and Albion Road, which the council hopes will be suitable for new housing. This work will require the car park to be closed on September 29.
Cllr John Harrison, cabinet member for Housing and Transport, said: “We are making brilliant progress with our house building projects and work converting empty properties.
“We will be carrying out survey work in Northumberland Square and the car park behind Albion Road very soon. If suitable, we hope it will provide another exciting opportunity to create homes in two great locations and further enhance the area.”