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Work to increase the number of residential places for South Tyneside's looked-after children is back on track.

Contractors are now back on site at Seton Avenue in South Shields where a new Assessment Centre is being built.

The centre will offer a home on a short-term basis for up to two children undergoing assessment.

Councillor Liz McHugh, Lead Member for Children, Families and Social care and Education and Skills at Â鶹ÊÓƵ said: "A lack of residential places for looked-after children is an issue faced by many councils across the country. In South Tyneside we are focusing significant investment in this area.

"We are absolutely committed to giving all our young people the best start in life. For those children who can't be with their birth family, it is important their lives remain as stable as possible and that means them living in the place they call home, close to their family, school and friends.

"I am so pleased that contractors are back on site to deliver this important scheme, "

Ken Parkin, Director of Able Construction, said: "We are delighted to have this opportunity to work with Â鶹ÊÓƵ to deliver these much-needed facilities.

"We're looking forward to getting the project at Seton Avenue back on track and deliver a building that the Council can be proud of."

Contractors are being sought for two new children's homes, one at Grant Street in Jarrow and another at Hebburn New Town.

Once complete, these developments will double the number of beds in children's homes the Council is able to provide for looked-after children.

The Council is always looking for new foster carers.

Anyone interested in fostering can visit  for further information or contact a fostering officer on (0191) 423 8500 or email fostering@southtyneside.gov.uk.