Tyne and Wear
Bi-fold and folding shop fronts in Tyne and Wear
Tables outside may need a licence, so check with the local authority covering Tyne and Wear before planning around a fully open frontage.

A folding front lets a Tyne and Wear cafe or bar open to the street in good weather and still close up securely at night. Neighbours and licensing conditions can matter once the front opens, so businesses in the North East should check any noise limits on their Tyne and Wear premises first.
What do we offer in Tyne and Wear?
How much does it cost in Tyne and Wear?
The guide price is £3,495 to £8,995 ex VAT per opening. Wind exposure differs across the North East, so we match the sill, seals and track to the position of your Tyne and Wear frontage. Your written quote shows travel, access and any out-of-hours work.
Check the planning rules for Tyne and Wear
Which towns do you cover?
- Gateshead
- Hebburn
- Jarrow
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- North Shields
- South Shields
- Sunderland
- Wallsend
- Washington
- Whitley Bay
Common questions
Do you cover all of Tyne and Wear?
Yes. ShopFronts UK works across Tyne and Wear, including Gateshead, Hebburn, Jarrow, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Can a bi-fold front be used as a fire exit?
Not by default. An escape door must open easily without special knowledge, and a multi-panel fold often does not, so the traffic door or a separate exit usually serves that role. Your fire risk assessment should cover this and be kept up to date.
Do I need planning permission for a bi-fold shop front?
Usually yes in England, because replacing a frontage with folding panels can materially change its appearance. Tables on the pavement may also need a licence. Rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so we go through this with you at survey.
Will a folding front let in draughts?
A well-fitted system seals when closed, using gaskets and a weather bar at the sill. The trade-off is at the threshold: a flatter track is easier for wheelchairs but less weather resistant. We design the sill around the exposure of your frontage and any drainage needed.
Bi-fold and folding shop fronts in Tyne and Wear
One contract, written quote and a 10-year workmanship guarantee.