Ambitious plans unveiled to transform Gateshead town centre
Council reveals vision for new homes, improved transport links, and vibrant community spaces
New plans have been revealed for an ambitious transformation of Gateshead town centre that includes hundreds of new homes, improved transport links, and revitalised community spaces.
Local leaders are aiming to reimagine the area following the upcoming demolition of the Gateshead Highway flyover, a move described by Anneliese Hutchinson, strategic director for economy, innovation and growth at Gateshead Council, as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS), Hutchinson said: “The removal of the flyover coincides with Kim McGuinness’ new mayoral development zone. This gives us the means to deliver long-held plans that will change the face of the town centre.”
The council hopes the planned redevelopment will turn Gateshead into a more cohesive and connected area, bridging divides between sections such as West Street, the Railway Quarter, the Quays, and the High Street.
New homes as a catalyst for change
A significant part of the regeneration plans revolves around new housing developments. Capital&Centric’s proposal for 275 homes surrounding Gateshead’s Old Town Hall is expected to be a focal point of this vision. The project aims to repurpose the grade II listed building and introduce cafes, bars, restaurants, and green spaces alongside new accommodation. These homes are scheduled for completion by 2030, pending final approval.
Andrew Sloan, the council’s head of regeneration, highlighted a need to change perceptions of Gateshead by making it safer and more vibrant, supported by initiatives such as Purple Flag accreditation for nighttime safety and the revamp of disused railway arches to attract businesses and artwork installations.
He added: “We know people want new homes and changes, but it’s essential to work with the right partners to ensure the redevelopment is successful from the very start.”
Transport and connectivity improvements
The council envisions improved connections through the town centre, creating new routes between places such as the Quayside, Gateshead Stadium, and Baltic Quarter. Future plans include redeveloping the transport interchange and potentially pedestrianising Jackson Street.
Council leader Martin Gannon sees the addition of new housing as a key driver to sustain local businesses and attract investment. He also expressed interest in adding a railway station in the Baltic Quarter, hoping for Northern trains to stop there, improving links between Newcastle and Sunderland.
Challenges and Quayside uncertainty
Despite optimism for some areas, uncertainty remains over the vacant Quayside land earmarked for an arena and international conference centre. While a £23 million multi-storey car park serving the site has opened, no construction has started on the venue. Plans to reassess market demand for the development are ongoing.
Before Christmas, doubts over the arena project intensified when Newcastle’s Utilita Arena announced a £65 million upgrade, casting the proposed Gateshead site into further uncertainty.
Council officials also acknowledged ongoing challenges, such as securing funding for the wider regeneration around the flyover area and purchasing properties at the southern end of High Street, which form key elements of the redevelopment aims.
Looking ahead, Gannon stressed that housing developments are crucial in creating a sustainable population to support the town’s businesses.
“The sooner we can get the south side of the high street sorted, the sooner the rest of it becomes sustainable. People make the difference,” he said.
The local authority faces a significant test during the 'all out’ local elections this May, where plans for regeneration will likely be a major talking point.