The North of England contractor will work in partnership with South Tyneside Council on the Hebburn New Town project.

Esh Construction has been appointed to build a new children’s home in Hebburn by South Tyneside Council.

The two-storey £1.7m development forms part of the Council’s investment in children’s residential services in the Borough and will provide accommodation for up to four young people.

Located on the former Victoria Court site, the development will also include two bedrooms for live-in staff, while externally a multipurpose garden and an activity garden for informal sports will provide a space for young people to enjoy outdoor exercise and hobbies.

A fabric first approach has been taken to energy efficiency with air source heat pumps being installed alongside high levels of thermal insulation and air tightness.

Grant Watson, Construction Manager at Esh Construction, said: “Esh is proud to be working with South Tyneside Council to deliver this vital children’s home in Hebburn and to contribute to a project that will help keep children closer to home and their communities.

“It is great to see the Council investing in these key services, and we look forward to delivering a high-quality space where the town’s young people can thrive.”

The building will use a traditional pallet of bricks, render and tiles to reflect local materials with vertical cladding blending to the landscaped areas. Cycle and car parking provision will also be included.

The Hebburn New Town children’s home is one of three new facilities the Council has secured, alongside an assessment centre in South Shields and another children’s home in Jarrow.

Cllr Liz McHugh, Lead Member for Children, Families and Social care and Education and Skills at South Tyneside Council said: “We take our corporate parenting responsibility seriously. By investing in these facilities, we can reduce expensive out of borough placements and support our young people by ensuring they can attend school, be closer to their family and any wider support network and enjoy time with their friends as any child should.

“Caring for our children in the borough maximises the opportunities to achieve the best home and parenting experience we can offer. Staff will be on hand to offer support and guidance to children within our homes, and address any issues faced, as any parent does their child.”

The Hebburn New Town children’s home is expected to open in Summer 2025.

To find out more about Esh Group, visit www.eshgroup.co.uk