This seat encapsulates the town of South Shields, and has been home to various industries over the years, traditionally shipbuilding and coal-mining, although it has also fostered tourism as a holiday resort. It has turned to various light industries following the decline of its traditional economy.
A proposed new ferry service across the Tyne to South Shields, which would be a considerable boost for the economic development of the area, depends on whether passenger trains can be restored in South East Northumberland. There are plans to restore this rail link after an absence of 37 years, but it will require government subsidy - which is yet to be secured.
Labour dominates the local council and the Conservatives have been known not to stand in some municipal elections.