An ongoing conversation about culture, place and the future of our town, and we’ve been listening.
Over recent weeks, we’ve started a conversation and been asking questions — simple ones, open ones — and inviting people to respond honestly.
What should sit at the heart of a Town of Culture bid? What should it give back to North Shields? What story do we want to tell the rest of the UK about us?
The answers haven’t been neat or uniform. They’ve been thoughtful, emotional, practical, hopeful, cautious and sometimes contradictory. And that’s exactly why they matter.
This article brings together a selection of those voices — including the loud, the quiet, the popular and the less-heard — to give a clearer picture of what our community is really saying.
“For the community — run by the community”
One theme came through again and again: ownership.
People were clear that culture shouldn’t be delivered to North Shields, but shaped with it.
“All-inclusive authentic community consultation and involvement through a transparent feedback and decision-making process accessible to all residents. No tokenism.”
— Phil Dunn
Others put it more simply:
“For the community — run by the community.”
— Leslie Forman
There was a strong desire for openness, transparency and trust — and a clear wariness of closed-door decisions or box-ticking exercises.
Heritage that lives in people, not just plaques
North Shields’ heritage featured heavily — but not as nostalgia for its own sake.
Fishing, graft, skill and working lives were mentioned repeatedly, alongside a desire to honour the people behind the history.
“The heritage of the fishing community.”
— Michelle Grant-Ramsden
Others highlighted lesser-known stories with national significance.
“The very first lifeboat was invented in the region, with early models stationed at the North Shields Sand End to combat the dangers of the River Tyne mouth.”
— Gillian Hatch
One contributor reflected on the restoration of Bluebird, recalling the pride of seeing something of world-class importance rebuilt quietly in a North Shields workshop — a reminder that this town has always played a bigger role than it’s often given credit for.
Culture in everyday spaces
Rather than calling for grand new buildings, many people focused on how existing spaces could work better for people — and they offered lots of specific, practical ideas.
Parks, squares, libraries, streets and the town centre were all mentioned as places where culture could naturally live, every day.
“Love to see outdoor pop-up cinema in the spring/summer… perhaps in Northumberland Square.”
— Heather Rhoda
Others suggested fountains, seating, greenery and simple places to stop and talk — spaces designed not just to pass through, but to gather.
“More public spaces that encourage people to sit, meet and spend time — not just move on.”
Northumberland Park came up repeatedly, with ideas ranging from small-scale performances and creative workshops to better use of its historic features and green space.
Libraries were also highlighted — not just as places to borrow books, but as community hubs for reading groups, talks and shared learning.
“Using what we already have better — that’s where the real potential is.”
Young people and what comes next
A significant number of comments centred on young people — and the importance of investing properly in creativity, confidence and opportunity.
People talked about youth clubs, safe spaces, mentoring and creative programmes as essential parts of the town’s future, not optional extras.
“Let’s ensure that funding builds for the whole community, and the process is open and inclusive.”
— Veronica Curran
Several people reflected on youth provision they remembered growing up — and what they feel has been lost.
“I used to go to a youth club that took us places and got us doing classes like art, cooking, music and sports… I would love something like that for the kids around here.”
— Claire Drummond
Others highlighted the need for opportunities that support wellbeing, confidence and belonging — especially for young people who don’t always see themselves reflected in culture.
“Somewhere young people can feel welcome, learn skills and be listened to.”
The emphasis was on long-term investment, not short-term projects — leaving behind skills, confidence and connection.
Keeping North Shields liveable
Alongside excitement and ambition, there was also caution — and a strong sense of responsibility.
People spoke openly about affordability, rents and the risk of losing what makes the town feel like home.
“Local younger generations not being priced out like they were in Whitley Bay.”
— Jack Wastnidge
“Lovely independent shops run and owned by locals at reasonable rent.”
— Joanne O’Flanagan
Others called for a balance between attracting visitors and protecting everyday life.
“We want visitors, but not at the cost of local people being pushed out.”
There were also calls for more independent bookshops, second-hand shops, indoor markets and spaces that feel characterful rather than generic.
“A town centre that feels lived-in, not copied and pasted.”
These comments weren’t anti-change. They were calls for careful, people-first regeneration.
Culture that already exists
Many people were quick to point out that North Shields doesn’t lack culture — it often lacks recognition and support.
Music came up again and again, alongside visual art, writing, markets and grassroots creativity.
“The Songwriter Circle — North Shields held monthly… a fantastic example of local culture.”
— Terry Gorman
“Probably has more venues for original live music than any small town in the UK.”
— Larry Page
Others mentioned murals, public art, photography, local history groups and small creative businesses quietly contributing to the town’s cultural life.
“So much is already happening — it just needs backing and visibility.”
The message was clear: culture here isn’t something to invent — it’s something to recognise, support and connect.
Not one voice — many
What stands out most isn’t agreement, but care.
Some comments were bold and visionary. Others were practical, cautious or quietly reflective. Together, they show a town paying attention to itself — and wanting a say in where it goes next.
There isn’t one single answer to what Town of Culture should look like for North Shields. And that’s not a weakness — it’s a strength.
Why we’re sharing this
As a community-led platform, our role isn’t to decide on behalf of North Shields. It’s to listen, reflect and make space for these conversations to be seen and taken seriously.
This article exists to make sure people’s words don’t disappear into comment threads — and to help others understand what our community cares about, in its own voice.
The conversation is ongoing. We’ll keep asking questions, and we’ll keep listening.
Because the best version of North Shields’s future is one shaped openly, honestly and together.
Get involved
If you’d like to be part of these conversations — or help shape what comes next — you’re very welcome.
Our I Love North Shields Community Group is where ideas are shared, questions are asked, and local voices come together.
👉 Join the group here at www.facebook.com/groups/ilovenorthshieldscommunity
Whether you want to share a thought, ask a question, tell a story or simply listen, there’s a place for you.
Prefer us in print?
Annual Subscription (4 Issues / 2026)
