Work to replace the Marsden steps starts this month

Wed 21 Oct 2026 · Written for Visit South Shields from the sources below.

The steps that take you from the cliff top down to Marsden Bay, next to the Grotto, have been shut since last December because of safety concerns. South Tyneside Council has now said that a replacement is about to begin. (South Tyneside Council, 21 Oct 2026: Major work to replace Marsden steps; checked 3 Nov 2026)

The council is paying for the job, which will cost more than £600,000. Esh Construction is building the new steps. Work starts in November and should be finished in spring 2027. Cranes are needed, so bad weather could hold things up. (South Tyneside Council, 21 Oct 2026: Major work to replace Marsden steps; ChronicleLive: Marsden steps work; checked 3 Nov 2026)

Update, 4 Nov 2026: a construction trade report published on 3 November gives more detail on the design. The top two sections will be rebuilt in concrete, and the six lower sections replaced by a steel staircase with landings, handrails and edge protection, finished with a protective coating. It says the work is due to finish in early 2027. (Bdaily, 3 Nov 2026: Esh Construction appointed for Marsden Bay steps; checked 4 Nov 2026)

What it means if you're visiting: you can still reach the beach by the Redwell Bank steps further along, which were repaired in a £289,000 scheme finished in 2022, but only when the tide allows. Check tide times before you set off. The Grotto has its own lift down to the venue (8am–10pm, according to the Grotto). (South Tyneside Council, 21 Oct 2026: Major work to replace Marsden steps; The Grotto, Marsden (venue website); checked 3 Nov 2026)

More: Marsden guide · Tides & sea safety. BBC coverage: (BBC News: Marsden cliff steps replacement; checked 3 Nov 2026)