The Beacon is a prestigious flagship Enterprise hub funded by two local charities, Centre West and Groundwork South Tyneside and Newcastle (STAN) along with ERDF (European money). The development stands in a prominent position on Westgate Road and is designed to be an eco-friendly sustainable building which will provide a base for enterprise, training and education as well as forming a social hub for the community through exhibition space, artisan units and a stylish bistro.