Common Ground Indoor Market Coming to the Former Wilko at the Beacon Centre

One of the largest empty units in North Shields town centre is getting a new lease of life. The former Wilko store at the Beacon Centre is being turned into Common Ground, an indoor market for independent traders, with the first phase planned to open this month.

As reported by I Love North Shields, the market is being developed and run by the Beacon Centre, which is owned by the Gill family. More than 30 businesses are already involved in the first phase. The exact opening date is still to be confirmed by the Beacon Centre, and proposed opening hours are Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.

Who will be trading

Early names announced include Flea Circus, the first confirmed trader, along with Peace of Pie from MasterChef finalist David Coulson, Pureknead Bakery, Farm Fermented Foods and Sweet Cherry Vintage. The branding has been created by North Shields artist Prefab77.

Brit Brief reports that the plans also include "The Square", an outdoor area beside the store with seating, landscaping and visiting food vendors. The outlet sums up the idea as "creating an affordable step between trading online or at occasional markets" and taking on premises of your own.

How to get a unit

Standard units measure 3m by 3m and cost £100 plus VAT a week, which covers Wi-Fi, business rates, service charges and fair-use electricity. Traders commit to an initial 12 weeks, then move to a monthly rolling arrangement. Larger lock-up units start from £200 plus VAT a week, although these are currently allocated. Trader recruitment is being coordinated by Simmie Harper, and applications can be made by emailing simmie@ilovenorthshields.com.

Why it matters

Empty big-box units are a familiar problem for town centres, and the Wilko closures left gaps across the country. Filling this one with dozens of small, local businesses gives shoppers a reason to visit the Beacon Centre and gives new traders a low-risk way to test a permanent pitch.

If you are heading into town, our guide to the best independent shops in North Shields covers more local favourites, and where to park in North Shields has the practical details. We will update this post once an opening date is confirmed.