Restarting the economy

Shops in South Tyneside are welcoming back customers as part of government plans to restart local economies.

Non-essential retail businesses can reopen from Monday 15 June, including shops selling clothes, shoes, toys, furniture, books and electronics.

South Tyneside Council is supporting shoppers with a range of measures to make sure people can shop safely.

What we are doing to keep shoppers safe

Public signs and hand sanitiser stations are in place in the Borough’s main shopping areas, and stewards are on hand to help keep walkways clear and help shoppers to queue safely.

At The Nook some parking bays closest to the shops are temporarily suspended to create extra room for pedestrians and for people to stand and queue.

See more about changes to shopping areas

What can I do to keep safe?

  • Shop locally Walk or cycle to the shops if you can
  • Stay alert on public transport Find out how on the Nexus website
  • Maintain social distancing From both shoppers and shop staff
  • Listen to stewards They are helping you to stay safe
  • Pay with contactless When in shops
  • Use a face covering More about when you need to wear a face covering
  • Use the hand sanitiser stations And take hand sanitiser with you
  • Pay for car parking by phone More information on the PayByPhone app

Advice for shop owners

We are aware of the immense challenges our business community has had to face over recent months and we are committed to helping businesses to bounce back and to helping our local economy recover.

It is up to individual shops to decide when to re-open, and you must follow government guidance on how to work safely during coronavirus.

A booklet with helpful information for shop owners and managers was distributed to shops at the end of July. If you did not receive this please email marketing@southtyneside.gov.uk

See guidance for businesses

South Shields Market

South Shields Market has started to reopen, with new measures in place to help traders and shoppers stay safe.

The layout of the market has changed, with stalls arranged in rows on the south side of the market square, in the space in front of The Word.

A new one-way system has been introduced with markers on the ground to help shoppers to stay socially distant. Entry and exit points are in place to help people to keep apart.

Please note there are changes to the market times.

Information about South Shields Market

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