Hedley Planning has successfully guided a major residential scheme through the planning process, securing final Government approval for Miller Homes’ 198-home development on the South Tyneside College campus site in Westoe.
Following South Tyneside Council’s Planning Committee backing in March 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government confirmed final approval on March 25, confirming the Secretary of State’s decision not to call in the application and allowing local determination to proceed.
Project Overview
The development transforms the 9.3-hectare South Tyneside College campus site on St George’s Avenue, Westoe, South Shields. The scheme represents a key part of wider regeneration plans, generating a crucial £23 million capital receipt for the college’s relocation to South Shields town centre alongside the marine school.
Development Evolution
The project demonstrates Hedley Planning’s adaptive approach to complex schemes. Initial proposals for 260 homes received council approval in December 2023, with planning permission formally granted in June 2025. When Miller Homes took over from Avant Homes as developer, Hedley Planning successfully managed a variation application, reducing the scheme to 198 homes while also minimizing environmental impact through reduced tree removal.
Regulatory Pathway
The project navigated a rigorous approval process, including a third-party call-in request to Government. Hedley Planning’s expertise ensured the application met all policy requirements, with council planners confirming the fundamental development principle “remains unchanged”—maintaining the critical financial return needed for the college’s strategic relocation.
Strategic Outcome
Final Government approval represents successful delivery of a complex, multi-stakeholder development that balances residential growth with the college’s institutional needs and South Shields’ town centre regeneration ambitions.
