Mill Dam, South Shields - Pay and Display Changes

Results updated 24 Feb 2026

The team received 221 total responses, 1 in favour and 220 against.

Main questions / concerns:

Q1 - “Staff at The Word use Mill Dam parking because there is no Council staff parking at this end of town, and they would have to pay for parking.”

A1 - The team recognises the difficulties faced by staff working in this part of the town centre. It is proposed that Mill Dam and/or Station Road be included within the Council’s staff parking permit scheme.

Q2 - “Residents and visitors use the free parking at Mill Dam to walk into the town centre to shop, then return to their cars.”

A2 - The team is also consulting on proposed tariff changes for the town centre car parks.

These proposals include:

• First hour free,
• £1 per hour thereafter,
• £4 for all‑day parking.

This aims to support short-term visits and maintain affordability for motorists while encouraging increased footfall in the town centre.

Q3 - “The changes will negatively impact The Customs House.”

A3 - The team does not expect a significant negative impact on The Customs House. The free first hour and the car park’s operating hours support short-term visits to the café/restaurant as well as evening shows and events. Longer daytime stays will incur charges, but the team considers the proposed tariffs to be reasonable and proportionate.

Next Steps

The scheme will now progress to the legal consultation stage, including publication of a draft Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) and a 21-day period for formal comments. As this is ongoing, the team will prepare our construction department for the installation of the crossing point.

We appreciate your engagement and will provide further updates should circumstances change.