North Tyneside Council makes £8.9m investment in green skills

A series of investments, partnerships and projects have helped cut carbon emissions, increase recycling, create opportunities for future employment and protect the borough's natural environment.

One of the year's standout successes has been the launch of Renew North Tyneside, a new reuse shop created in partnership with SUEZ and North Tyneside Big Local.

Since opening in March, the shop has sold more than 30,000 preloved household items, giving unwanted goods a second life, reducing waste and helping residents access affordable items for their homes.

The council also worked closely with Newcastle College and Shepherd Offshore to secure £8.9 million from the North East Innovation Zone to expand the Energy Academy in Wallsend and almost treble its capacity.

The council has also continued to make significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint.

Its programme to convert all street lighting to LED technology is now in its final phase and, once complete, is expected to cut energy consumption by 74%, reducing both emissions and costs.

A range of heat decarbonisation projects across council buildings has further improved energy efficiency and supported progress towards net zero ambitions.

Residents have benefited from improved recycling services, with more materials now accepted for recycling and a programme of community recycling and waste events encouraging more people to reuse and recycle.

Investment in sustainable transport has also continued through the completion of the Sea Front Sustainable Route, linking Tynemouth and Whitley Bay.

Delivered through external funding and partnerships with Active Travel England, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and Capita, the route is encouraging more walking, wheeling and cycling along the coast.

The council has also strengthened its commitment to nature recovery and biodiversity.

Through the North East Community Forest partnership, £73,000 was secured to plant 1,351 trees across the borough during 2025/26.

Councillor Willie Samuel, Cabinet Member responsible for Environmental Sustainability, said: "This has been a landmark year for environmental sustainability in North Tyneside, but also for the opportunities we're creating for local people.

“Contrary to what is often said, cutting our carbon footprint is also about cutting costs and by going green we are saving money in a number of ways.”