The Former Mercantile Marine Offices

The Former Mercantile Marine Offices, built in 1863-64, is a two-storey public building designed by T M Clemence, who was the architect and borough surveyor. An addition was made to the rear in 1878 by architect J H Morton. Constructed from white bricks and ashlar, the building features three square bays and is designed in the Renaissance style.

The front elevation showcases a ground floor entrance wall that is recessed behind an open rusticated arcade with three segmental arches supported by rectangular piers, with narrower arches on the sides. The first floor is framed by pairs of Corinthian columns that accentuate three semi-circular headed windows below an entablature adorned with widely spaced heavy brackets and topped with a crowning parapet. Above the central bay, there is a triangular pediment featuring sculptured coats of arms created by sculptor Thos William Rowe.

The first floor windows on the side elevation also have architraves and triangular pediments, and the first floor is notably taller than the ground floor, which serves as the "classical" basement for the order. The later addition to the south maintains the same architectural style and detailing. Originally, this building served as the Customs House, constructed just before South Shields was designated a separate customs port in 1865. The 1878 addition was intended to accommodate the offices of the local Marine Board.