Newcastle secures Levelling Up funding for city centre projects

Projects to invest in Newcastle city centre and build a new leisure centre in the Outer West have received funding from the government’s Levelling Up Fund.

The funding will be used to restore Grainger Market and create a space for cultural activities, as well as an improved retail destination with independent traders and events.

Eldon Square will also be regenerated, becoming a civic space with fountains and cafes and bars.

Two other bids for repairs and maintenance to the Tyne Bridge and jobs on the River Tyne were not successful in the initial round of funding.

Leader of Newcastle City Council, Cllr Nick Forbes, said: ‘I am delighted to have been successful in our bid to the government’s Levelling Up Fund to help secure the future of the Grainger Market and Old Eldon Square.

‘As two of the city’s most iconic and treasured assets, this funding will now allow their heritage to be preserved and enhanced. It also means we are in the position to progress with our plans to improve the environment and connectivity in the city centre, providing safe, green and clean spaces for people to enjoy and continue to support local businesses.

‘Our city centre is vital to the economic renewal of our city. If it prospers the whole city prospers, so this announcement is great news for the whole of Newcastle and everyone who lives here.’

In relation to a new leisure centre at West Denton, Cllr Forbes, said: ‘I am so pleased that the people of the Outer West will be getting a new state of the art leisure centre. The council shared the community’s disappointment when GLL said they would not be reopening West Denton Pool.

‘We considered funding and building a new pool in the Outer West at West Denton Leisure Centre but felt that a new leisure facility with sports hall, gym and pool would be a great opportunity to provide much better sports facilities across the board. We are delighted the Government has agreed with us and look forward to work starting on this new facility for the people of the Outer West.’

Photo supplied by Newcastle City Council