Harbourside retail development opens for business
The weather gods showed up for Amble Harbour Village’s opening day, but, like the Vikings who had set up camp in the Town Square, they were vanquished by crowds of locals and visitors, who thronged to the new harbourside retail development.
“We were delighted with the turnout by local people and visitors. Despite the damp weather, we had a fantastic launch day” said Harbour Village co-ordinator Sarah Dunne.
The retail pods and Seafood Centre were on show to visitors, together with an array of family fun activities. Vikings prowled around the harbour, engaging the crowds and entertaining the young people with mini skirmishes.
Discovering the diverse species of fish caught by Amble fishermen
Newcastle University’s research vessel the Princess Royal was docked at the Harbour, and there were cookery demonstrations from Old Boat House chef Martin Charlton. A wide variety of Amble fish was on display, with help on identification, and people could even learn how to eat a crab claw.
“We had facepainting, pottery painting, a lifeboat display – including an unexpected real-life shout” said Sarah.
Ten of the fifteen retail pods are now open, selling a range of arts, crafts, gifts, food and drink. The Seafood Centre will open for business later in the spring. Building work on the site is almost finished, with a harbourside walkway also yet to be completed.
“It was a great day, and I’d like to say thank you to everyone who helped make it such a success. We’re looking forward to a busy year ahead,” said Sarah.
Amble Harbour Village is a £2.5m development, funded by the Coastal Communities Fund, Regional Growth Network, Dept for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Northumberland County Council. The project was developed by NCC, Arch and Amble Development Trust. Project partners: Amble Town Council, Amble Business Club and community groups.
