FURTHER plans have been unveiled to bring one of the North-East’s most famous coastal landmarks back into use - with businesses invited to be part of its regeneration.

North Tyneside Council is working with the Heritage Lottery Fund and Coastal Communities Fund to inject new life into Whitley Bay’s iconic Spanish City Dome.

And to secure its long-term future the council and its partners are now seeking expressions of interest from businesses who might want to occupy up to ten allocated units that will be available.

An information session for those businesses keen to be part of the next phase of the multi-million pound plan to regenerate this part of the coast will be held in the Dome on August 13, between 10am and 2pm.

Business proposals will then be used to help the design team ensure the building is restored in a way that takes into account the requirements of end users.

It is anticipated that the internal refurbishment could begin in early 2015, with the first units expected to be available in the summer of that year and the full restoration completed by 2016.

Elected Mayor Norma Redfearn said: “This is an unrivalled opportunity for businesses with a passion for putting the Spanish City Dome and the coastal area on the map for residents and tourists.

“We are pulling out all the stops to get this iconic building back into use for the community.

“We’re not just ensuring the building is structurally sound and returned to be an attractive landmark, but also want to ensure the space inside is used to add to the vibrancy and success of the site.”

“We’re currently marketing the property and are keen to hear from anyone who has great ideas that they want to put into reality in the Dome.”

The proposals will see up to five ground floor retail or cafe units to the front of the building facing onto the promenade, including the new plaza area. The first floor will also feature a café/restaurant and a large leisure space.

Community and leisure uses are also being sought in line with the current outline planning consent.

The new £1.2m plaza and amphitheatre outside the Dome, connects the Spanish City site to the promenade and beach,

For further information contact Brett Devenish or Julie Bews on 643 2142 or e-mail brett.devenish@northtyneside.gov.uk.