English: View of shops on Front Street, New Washington, May 1965 (TWAM ref. 5417/409/2). This is now part of Concord Village. This was what shopping was like in Washington before The Galleries.

2014 marks the 50th anniversary of the creation of Washington New Town. It was officially established on 24 July 1964 and since then the area has witnessed massive changes. Old pit terraces have been replaced with modern housing, thousands of new jobs have been created, great new shopping and leisure facilities have been built and a derelict industrial landscape has been reclaimed and transformed.
To celebrate this anniversary Tyne & Wear Archives has brought together a set of images of Washington as it was 50 years ago. These were commissioned by Washington Development Corporation, which was responsible for planning, designing and building the New Town.
The images are an important reminder of Washington's past. They reflect how much of the town has changed beyond recognition. The town will continue to evolve over the next fifty years and we must make sure that the memories continue to be preserved.

(Copyright) These images are Crown Copyright. We're happy for you to share these digital images within the spirit of The Commons. Please cite 'Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums' when reusing. Certain restrictions on high quality reproductions and commercial use of the original physical version apply though; if you're unsure please email info@twarchives.org.uk.