Groups of residents were given a peek behind the scenes at the progress being made to transform the Spanish City Dome.
A second round of Hard Hat and Photography Tours were held at the iconic building on Friday and Saturday (23 and 24 June).
North Tyneside Council, alongside its partner Robertson Construction, is staging invite-only tours throughout the restoration project to give members of the public a chance to see the changes at first hand.
About 120 people were selected to take part in the first tours in January 2017 – one further, and final, round will be held before the completion of the work in spring 2018.
The £10m scheme aims to restore the Spanish City Dome to its former glory as part of the council’s £36m Seafront Master Plan for Whitley Bay.
During the latest tours more than 100 residents were treated to a glimpse at the huge changes which have been made since work began last summer.
Recent progress has seen steelwork put up to form a new plant enclosure to the east and a west structure, which has included the installation of a concrete floor on the first floor, providing spectacular views across the Links and to St Mary’s Lighthouse and beyond.
The famous dancing ladies statues have been taken away to be restored and the former shop fronts have been removed.
Following the removal of the first floor within the Rotunda, a new ground floor slab has been constructed followed by scaffolding allowing restoration works to begin to the ornate features which were constructed as part of the original build.
Glowing feedback was received following the latest tours, which were led by Andrew Coleman from Robertson, Chris Holmes from architects ADP and Julie Bews from North Tyneside Council, with comments including:
“The team were all interesting and enthusiastic…fantastic visit.”
“Very informative and exceeded expectations.”
“Very positive, super staff. You are doing an excellent job – roll on April!”
“Absolutely fascinating tour, wonderful to learn about the project from such passionate, knowledgeable people.
“An extremely positive experience that will help us spread the word about what an amazing job is being done and how it will be a fantastic asset.”
Moira Mills and Jeanette Bain were thrilled to be offered a place on the tour.
Moira, from Monkseaton, said: “I was delighted with the attention to detail in restoring the Dome to its original splendour.”
Jeanette, who also lives in Monkseaton, added: “It looks like it’s going to be fabulous.”
For more information about the Seafront Master Plan, and to watch an aerial film showcasing the regeneration, visit http://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/category/642/coastal-regeneration