Regeneration plan unveiled for Gateshead

Following engagement with the local community and civic leaders, plans have been announced to regenerate Gateshead town centre.

The council wanted to create a town centre which would improve the wellbeing of residents and promote prosperity and economic growth.

A new Civic Square is part of the plans to make the town centre more attractive, this is paired with a community square and gardens to encourage interaction and activity.

An ‘activity loop’ around the town centre is intended to create a better environment for retail and leisure. It aims to promote walking and cycle, support the growth of a night-time economy and create a sense of place that will feel safe to residents and visitors.

The regeneration will also work to create better links to the borough’s new developments, including the £260m events destination at Gateshead Quay.

Cllr Marin Gannon, leader of Gateshead Council said: ‘We know residents and businesses are unhappy with the way things are currently.

‘We’ve listened and are committed to creating a lively and connected town centre which promotes a better quality of life.

‘GT3 Architects have supported us to identify bold, sustainable opportunities to improve social interaction, wellbeing and ways to better connect the town to the Tyne. We’re especially pleased with how they engaged young people in the process as they are Gateshead’s future.’

Simon Dunstan, director at GT3 Architects said: ‘The masterplan sets out a vision for Gateshead town centre that is founded in connectivity, sharing and variety to create a place where locals have a better quality of life, where there are opportunities to take pride in the town centre and where there is an opportunity for everyone to prosper.’

In related news, in May 2019, Homes England agreed a £1.8m funding deal with Gateshead Council to go towards a major housing development in Gateshead.

The £1.8m funding will support the development of Clasper Village, a 12-acre brownfield site to the west of Gateshead town centre which the council hopes can be used to broaden Gateshead’s range of housing.

Photo Credit – Gateshead Council