Restoration work on South Shields iconic lighthouse completed
Restoration work to the iconic Herd Groyne lighthouse in South Shields has been completed, thanks to two North East businesses steeped in heritage coming together.
The Barbour Foundation approached the Port of Tyne, which owns the lighthouse, with the offer of a generous £100,000 donation to support the restoration of the nearly 150-year-old lighthouse, which was built in 1882.
Restoration work addressed much-needed repairs and maintenance, ensuring the lighthouse's continued operation and preservation and was estimated to cost around £250,000. The project included cleaning, repainting, and fixing minor structural defects, carried out by specialist contractor TIS Ltd. The Herd Groyne will now return to its role as a vital navigational aid, ensuring the safe passage of vessels into the River Tyne.
Barbour, the South Shields based global lifestyle clothing brand, has a historic connection to the Herd Groyne, featuring the lighthouse in its imagery since its earliest catalogues, dating back to 1908.
Dame Margaret Barbour DBE DL commented on the restoration: “I am delighted that through The Barbour Foundation, we have been able to contribute towards the restoration of this historic lighthouse. The Herd Groyne is one of the North East’s most recognised and unique landmarks; it means so much to all of us at Barbour as the Herd Groyne (or Beacon as we know it internally) has been part of our history and heritage since the company was founded in South Shields in 1894. The work that has been done to restore this remarkable lighthouse will ensure that it continues to guide ships into the River Tyne for many years to come.”
Matt Beeton, CEO at the Port of Tyne, expressed gratitude for The Barbour Foundation's support: “We are incredibly thankful for The Barbour Foundation's contribution, which has helped restore this key piece of regional heritage. These important works will ensure the lighthouse continues to serve both the community and the maritime industry for generations to come.”
The Port of Tyne is one of the UK’s largest trust ports, reinvesting all its profits back into facilities along the River Tyne for the benefit of the North East and all its stakeholders. The Port is also custodian of much-loved assets in the region, maintaining their heritage for generations to come.
The Barbour Foundation’s support highlights its longstanding commitment to the South Shields community and to preserving regional heritage.