Gateshead Council’s planning committee has approved plans for the development of a £260m arena-led regeneration scheme which will see the creation of around 2,000 new jobs
The regeneration scheme includes an arena, purpose-built conference and exhibition centre, restaurants, a dual-branded hotel and large areas of outdoor realm and performance space.
It is anticipated that it will attract more than 338,000 additional visitors to the region each year.
The plans were submitted by Gateshead Council’s development partner Ask:PATRIZIA, who has appointed Sir Robert McAlpine to build the 54,500 sqm regeneration scheme, designed by HOK Architects.
Bringing internationally recognised facilities to Gateshead
Councillor Martin Gannon, Gateshead Council leader, said: “We’ve wanted to revitalise this key site for a long time.
“Our long-term aspiration has always been to bring internationally recognisable facilities of this scale to not just Gateshead but the entire region.
“This project is transformational, and today’s decision signals confidence in the North East. Newcastle Gateshead Quays will be a global leader in entertainment, leisure, and hospitality but most importantly it is about creating new employment and training opportunities for thousands at a time when they are badly needed.
“Despite the current challenges, we need to remember the worth of the events industry. We look forward to opening the venue late 2023.”
John Hughes, managing director of Ask Real Estate, commented: “We have worked closely with the council and the wider stakeholders to ensure this regeneration scheme delivers maximum benefit to the wider region and will put this iconic waterfront on the map internationally.
“We have brought together a world-class team of designers, architects and operators to deliver this scheme which will be one of Europe’s key cultural locations.
“We look forward to now starting construction work and bringing these superb public facilities to life.”
‘Biodiversity and sustainability at its core’
Dan Williams, head of development, UK and Ireland PATRIZIA, added: “The scheme is designed with biodiversity and sustainability at its core and we have focussed on the creation of superb outdoor spaces as well as delivering the new buildings and associated infrastructure.
“This will be especially important as we continue to deal with the legacy of Covid and the increased need for well-designed outdoor spaces and walkways.”
The regeneration scheme includes elevated areas with panoramic views across the River Tyne and 40 new seating areas as well as cycle provision across the site and capacity for electric vehicle charging points within the council’s new multi-story car park. It will also connect directly to Gateshead’s district energy network.
Site enabling work will start before the end of the year with construction expected to commence in March 2021 and the new complex will open in 2023.
