A new bus service connecting South Tyneside with the Royal Quays Outlet Centre in North Shields is proving beneficial for shoppers, the outlet centre, and the bus operator.
The route replaces the previous number 10/11 service that originally served South Shields, Jarrow, and The Cobalt Business Park with the new addition of a stop at the outlet centre and North Shields town centre.
As Matt Dawson, Centre Manager of Royal Quays Outlet Centre explains, the new service has already increased footfall to the centre which is benefiting existing well-established brand names and the many new independent traders.
“Although we are lucky that we have ample free car parks and the Metro is just a short walk away, I was very conscious that for shoppers living in South Tyneside or even nearby North Shields, that the transport links could be improved with the addition of a dedicated bus route,” he said.
“The new service passes through the majority of South Tyneside to North Shields via Royal Quays and so far, there has been increased footfall compared to our pre covid 2019 figures and I’ve had very positive feedback from the businesses based at the outlet.”
Matt took over the management of Royal Quays at the end of 2020 during the height of the pandemic and at a time when many shops were forced to close. One of his main priorities was to develop the transport links as part of his strategy to improve the overall customer experience for the centre. His other success has been the introduction of new, local independent businesses to the centre including Garden World, Hauticulture and The Black Storm Brewery.
Matt believes that the new bus route will also give customers more choices not only as far as how they choose to travel to the outlet but also with their green credentials.
“Travelling by public transport reduces pollution and road congestion by reducing the number of cars on the road. It’s also a benefit when you visit one of our new businesses, The Black Storm Brewery as you can let someone else do the driving for you.”
Steve Walker, Managing Director, Stagecoach North East, said: “Working in partnership with Nexus, we are delighted to be extending journeys on South Shields services 10 and 11 from Jarrow via Tyne Tunnel to North Shields, providing an exciting new link with Royal Quays Retail and Leisure.
“As restrictions ease and customers begin to travel more frequently, this latest connection demonstrates our commitment to delivering more choice, more value for money and more opportunities to travel, whether you’re commuting again or adding a new destination to your retail routine.”
