South Tyneside Council (STC) has announced plans for the transformation of the seafront in South Shields after the scheme received a £1m grant from the government as part of the Sea Change initiative.

Plans include improvements to the promenade, the installation of new lighting and new street furniture, as well as additional work on the amphitheatre and elevated walkway, and increased performance space for theatre, buskers, dance and artists. The scheme forms part of the council's 4 Star Plus Regeneration initiative, and has been highlighted as a priority project as part of the Sustainable Community Regeneration Strategy and Local Area Agreement, which also includes the creation of a 104-bedroom, four-star hotel along the foreshore.

STC has committed to provide match-funding for the future maintenance of the area, as well as running costs involving a combination of existing repair budgets, PFI street lighting allocation and a contribution from the council's capital programme. Tracey Dixon, STC lead member for culture and wellbeing, said: "We are fortunate that we have a wonderful natural environment in our coastline and, though this in itself attracts visitors, it is our job to maximise the potential of this asset.

"This money will enable us to enhance the tourism offer along the foreshore, driving forward a cultural and creative regeneration of the area. By funding inspiring and innovative projects, we can make our foreshore an even more appealing destination." The £1m Sea Change funding is part of a government initiative that has awarded more than £29m to projects in 28 resorts across the UK in a bid to preserve the historic and cultural traditions of the British seaside.