Plans for a new open-air performance square, park and plaza on Gateshead Quays have been submitted, with a decision expected before Christmas.
The proposals form the first phase of a £24m programme of infrastructure and public realm improvements intended both to create new spaces for people to use and prepare the waterfront site for future development – including the long-discussed Gateshead Quays arena.
The planning application was validated on September 10 and Gateshead Council says work on the public spaces cannot begin until permission has been granted. Earthworks to prepare the wider site and create future development plots can, however, get under way beforehand.
At the heart of the plans is Performance Square, a new outdoor space designed to host events and performances as well as provide an everyday place to sit and spend time by the river.
An Arrival Plaza and Linear Park are also proposed, along with improved pedestrian routes across the site. Designs for the three spaces take inspiration from Gateshead’s coal mining heritage, with features reflecting the layers of coal and rock beneath the ground.
The £24m backing from the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority also includes infrastructure and enabling works to create serviced development plots and a standalone platform for a future arena. Earlier this year, the authority approved work towards securing an investor/operator for a proposed 12,500 to 15,000-capacity venue.
Gateshead Council confirmed to Cultured. North East that the new public realm works are intended to support rather than be disrupted by any future arena development. The earthworks will prepare the site for the arena as well as Performance Square and the other new public spaces.
A timetable for building the arena itself has not yet been confirmed.
Councillor Steve Campion, Gateshead Council’s cabinet member for economic development, said: “If planning permission is granted, we will see beautiful and high-quality public spaces in a part of our quayside which has been neglected for too long.
“This initial work is also fundamental to unlocking the site’s future potential and creating the conditions needed to bring forward future development opportunities, including the proposed arena.”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said her ambition remained to see a new arena built on the banks of the Tyne.
“I want to see the Gateshead Quays become a world-class destination, with the biggest acts performing in a new arena on the banks of the Tyne,” she said.
“But it’s also important that this iconic waterfront works for local people now because for too long it’s been overlooked. That’s why we’re investing in a new performance square and park that people can enjoy every day.”
The current proposals are being brought forward by Gateshead Council with development partner Ask:PATRIZIA.