Major step forward for Gateshead Quays as plans submitted to transform waterfront destination

Plans to revitalise Gateshead Quays including a new open-air performance square, a linear park and plaza have been unveiled.

The proposals represent the first phase of infrastructure improvements to the Gateshead Quays area, and mark a significant milestone in the long-term vision to transform the area into a major destination for Gateshead and the wider North East.

Backed by £24 million of funding from North East Mayor Kim McGuinness, the proposals will deliver new public spaces, walking routes and essential infrastructure across the site.

The improvements will create an attractive and accessible environment for residents and visitors to enjoy, whilst helping to prepare the site for future investment and developments, including the proposed Gateshead Quays arena.

The proposals, which are subject to planning permission being granted, include the creation of Performance Square, Arrival Plaza, Linear Park and improved pedestrian connections across the site. Together, these spaces will create an attractive and easy-to-use area that residents and visitors can enjoy straight away, while also preparing the site for future development.

Councillor Steve Campion, Cabinet member for Economic Development at Gateshead Council, said: "These proposals represent a major step forward in delivering the vision for Gateshead Quays.

"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.

"This investment will help strengthen Gateshead Quays and Gateshead town centre as a premier destination for both local people and visitors from across the North East."

As the largest public space in the first phase, Performance Square will provide somewhere for people to come together for events and performances, while also offering space to sit, relax and enjoy the waterfront every day.

The design takes inspiration from Gateshead's coal mining heritage. Features within Performance Square, Linear Park and Arrival Plaza reflect the layers of coal and rock beneath the ground, creating a strong link to the area's history.

If approved, the works will prepare the site for future development while creating an attractive and accessible space that can be used and enjoyed immediately.

The proposed works form a key part of the wider regeneration ambitions for Gateshead Quays, creating attractive public spaces that celebrate the area's heritage while supporting future growth and investment.

North East mayor Kim McGuinness, said: "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. We no longer want to see acts like Harry Styles and Taylor Swift skipping the region because we don't have a venue big enough for all their North East fans.

"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 investment at Gateshead Quays is part of our wider £104 million plan to grow the North East's creative industries, a film studio in Sunderland, support for small venues, investment in creative skills and more major events so we can attract new visitors and make sure we have great creative careers here in the region."

Neil Pickup, Project Director at Ask Real Estate, commented on behalf of Ask:PATRIZIA, Gateshead Council’s development partner: “We look forward to delivering this important phase of work, which will create new public spaces where people can visit, enjoy and spend time. The proposed design will provide significant benefits for the local community and the wider region, ensuring that Gateshead Quays is a more welcoming and accessible waterfront destination for all.”